Jameson Black Barrel and Johnnie Walker Black Label are two of my favourite ‘black’ whiskies; both are smooth, smokey, with a hint of fruit. But if you had to select one or the other, which one comes out on top?
The bartender should know what you mean when ordering a ‘black’ whisky in any decent drinking establishment. I’ve decided to end the Jameson Black vs Johnnie Walker Black debate and put these superb whiskies head-to-head.
Jameson Black vs Johnnie Walker Black
How will Jamison Black Barrel and Johnnie Walker Black Label greet you when you open each bottle of whisky? Let’s find out.
1. Jameson Black Barrel
Overview
- Distiller: Jameson
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Ireland
- Colour: Amber
Review
Black Barrel is a Jameson whiskey that’s perfectly blended with two distinct Irish whiskeys, further matured in double-charred barrels for at least three years.
The first is a pot still whiskey matured in sherry casks. The second is a rare small-batch grain whiskey that has been matured in oak casts.
On The Nose
A subtle chard woodiness, sweet vanilla, and ripe fruit on the nose with a touch of nutty spice.
On The Palate
A slight nuttiness and dried fruits on the palate, with sweet vanilla and spice that slowly leads to a smoky oak finish.
Best Served
Jameson Black Barrel whiskey is excellent on its own, or enjoy it in a highball. For something a little sweeter, try it in a Jameson Ginger sparkler with a lemon slice or a Crimson Cranberry Punch.
Pairing With Food
Try pairing Jameson Black Barrel with your favourite cut of steak, or for the sweet tooth, pair it with a double chocolate mousse.
Related: 9 Super-Smoky Peated Whiskies With Attitude
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
2. Johnnie Walker Black Label
Overview
- Distiller: Johnnie Walker
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Scotland
- Colour: Amber
Review
Johnnie Walker Black Label is a unique blend of over 40 perfectly crafted malt and grain whiskies from all four corners of Scotland. The resulting whisky has been left to age for no less than twelve years before bottling at 40% ABV.
On The Nose
A delectable creamy toffee, sweet honey, and a touch of black pepper on the nose. There are hints of dried fruit with a light smoky essence.
On The Palate
Sweet, creamy toffee, orange zest, and spice on the palate with dried fruit and smoky peat towards the finish.
Best Served
Johnnie Walker Black is best served neat on the rocks. Adding this whisky to a cocktail such as a Johnnie and Ginger is also highly recommended.
Pairing With Food
This one goes well with any spiced chicken or pork dish; try pouring it over some stewed fruits for dessert.
Related: 7 Popular Johnnie Walker Label Whiskes
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
Andrew’s Top Pick
Johnnie Walker Black Label
My top pick is Johnnie Walker Black Label because it is just the right balance of smokiness and fruitiness without any single flavour overpowering.
It was that slight nutty tang that I was not a lover of that gave Jameson Black Barrel 2nd place.
The Brands
Let’s discover how Jameson and Johnnie Walker got started.
Jameson
John Jameson, a Freemason and lawyer from Dublin, founded the Jameson Distillery in 1780. The distillery has received several accolades and awards from the World Spirit Championships, including Gold and Double Gold awards for their whiskeys.
Johnnie Walker
Scotland had a strict ban on blending grain and malt whiskies in 1825. This gave John Walker, a grocer from Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, an idea. He began selling made-to-order (blended) whiskies to meet his customer’s requirements. The made-to-order whiskies were sold under the name Walkers Kilmarnock whisky and launched the brand we know today.
Conclusion
Jameson Black Barrel is a quality whisky that’s full of flavour, especially if you like hints of nuttiness with smoke and fruits. Johnnie Walker Black Label has everything you want in a black whisky and can be enjoyed on its own or in a sweet summer cocktail.
Also Read: 6 Best Glenmorangie Whiskies Cask-Aged To Perfection
Further Reading
Below are some additional articles from The Drinks Geek blog. We write articles on several fascinating areas of drinks, including different brands, drink types, cocktail recipes and more.
