Johnnie Walker Black Label
Blended Scotch Whisky
40% ABV / RRP: £35.50

Over the last few years, the secondary whisky market has well and truly rocketed, accompanied by what seems to be an ever-growing army of whisky auction sites. For many, the appeal is the chance to cash in on a long-forgotten back-of-the-cupboard curiosity, or to take a chance on bidding for an old dust gathered classic headlined lot.

Whisky auction sites also seem increasingly to have become a bit of a flipper’s paradise, with streams of newly released, highly sought-after limited editions being listed almost instantly upon launch by those hoping to turn a tidy profit. Now, don’t get me wrong — I love a bargain on the single malt front as much as the next person — but personally, the biggest draw for me at whisky auctions over the last couple of years has been, of all things, blended whisky!

From a 1960s White Horse to a 1970s Cutty Sark or a 1980s Teacher’s (yes, Teacher’s!), those bygone styles of blends are true things of dramming beauty. Sometimes a little rough around the edges — but almost more beautiful for being so, and comprised of whiskies which provide a real lesson in liquid history. It may not have quite the same rich, dusty old school feel as its older siblings from the 60s, 70s or 80s, but one blended Scotch whisky that well and truly stands the test of time and still has all of its heritage at the heart of every pour, is that of Johnnie Walker Black Label.

Nose: Wafting waves of winter spice, warm treacle tart, sherry-soaked sultanas and assorted citrus peels. Protruding — but not overpowering — puffs of coal smoke, charred oak, anise and vivacious vanilla follow. Baked spiced apples, grilled peaches, rich toffee tablet and Cadbury Bournville dark chocolate make for the next set of nasal niceties, joined by ready-rolled cake icing, walnuts, ground white peppercorns and a tease of tannic black English breakfast tea.

Palate: A wealth of wood spice and coal-smoke-infused Werther’s Original-style soft caramels, followed by a feisty, fruit-led frenzy of Frank Cooper’s Original Oxford marmalade, lemon zest, dried apricots, baked figs and more of those sherry-soaked sultanas. The palatable pleasures conclude with a generous wedge of bread pudding, granary toast, Cadbury Fruit & Nut chocolate, a warming hint of Jamaica ginger cake, five-spice and the subtlest suggestion of something herbal.

Finish: A fabulous fruit-and-spice-led finish, delivering a lingering and harmonious hum of smoke.

Summary: Johnnie Walker Black Label is one of those whiskies you can truly rely on as an everyday pour. It is also a reassuring sight on a plane or on a back bar when travelling. Retailing for under £30, it most definitely falls into the category of being a big bang-for-your-buck blended belter.

As far as whisky auctions are concerned, keep your eyes peeled — there are big bargains to be had. Last year, I managed to pick up a 1970s Johnnie Walker Black Label for just over £40, and it was blissful.