1960s Johnnie Walker Black Label Extra Special

They were saying it was ‘Extra Special’ and we believe them. The Beatles and the Stones were drinking this! Now JW Black remained a fine drop throughout the years, but of course, how could you fight some 1950s (and possibly 1940s) distillates with very high malt proportions?

Colour: gold.

Nose: It’s an amazing ‘transmutation’ of peat smoke, with a wonderful ashy side, roasted chestnuts, charcoal, walnuts, lit Partagas… Magnificent, really, and a style that’s nowhere to be seen today. But remember, fifty-five years in glass…

Mouth: speechless. Please call the anti-blendoporn brigade! Parma ham, porcinis, foccacia, roasted chestnuts again, raisins, praline, cereal bars, ashes, tobacco… Wow, really, wow!

Finish: surprisingly long, with some salt, clams, oysters, chocolate, ashes… It’s just endless.