Johnnie Walker, the best-selling Scotch whisky in the world, isn’t necessarily known for their experimentations (because they’ve kept their experimentations in-house) but, if their new Blenders’ Batch Series continues, they might be. Their first release in the line, Triple Grain American Oak, is now available stateside, but if you’re a Johnnie fan, you’re going to have to act fast, as there are limited amounts available.
To make the blend, Master Blender Jim Beveridge tapped into his interest in American whiskey, specifically calling to mind his time spent working on bourbons and ryes in Kentucky during the 1990s.
This specific blend was a result of hundreds of experiments by Beveridge and his team to try and see just what could be done to add to the depth and the complexity of Scotch whisky. Triple Grain American Oak is aged for at least 10 years in American oak (which includes bourbon casks) and was made from five whiskies in total—three grain whiskies (wheat, barley and corn), some of which came from the now closed Port Dundas distillery and two distinct malts, Cardhu and Mortlach.
According to the makers, the flavor profile is “elegantly balanced and finely layered with mellow vanilla and fresh fruit tones and gentle spice notes.”
Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Triple Grain American Oak comes in at 41.3%ABV and will be available in limited amounts nationwide for around $29.99. Remember, once it’s gone, it’s gone, so act fast.