Essentially marked as the world’s only blended Scotch to be produced exclusively for mixing purposes, Johnnie Walker’s Red Label whiskey is an inexpensive introduction to the world of Scotland’s distilled beverages. Since its introduction in 1911, Walker Red Label has became a world icon, and is served every year in an astounding variety of drinks, ranging from the beginner’s simple “Walker-and-water” to more complex mixers, such as a Highland liqueur. Presented herein are a few ideas for Walker Red Label fans when mixing this Scottish classic.
To begin with, most whom are introduced to Johnnie Walker begin enjoying the beverage as a “Walker-and-water,” in which the only ingredients are ice, soft water, and Walker’s Scotch made for mixing. Served in an old-fashioned glass, the amount of each ingredient often varies, from equal parts Scotch and water to the balance sometimes being tilted more than seventy-five percent either way. While it may seem especially odd to some North American drinkers to add water to whiskey, it is a rather common practice in the United Kingdom, often essential to bring out the hidden, more complex flavors and aromas of Scotch, especially single-malts.
Another popular way to enjoy Johnnie Walker’s Red Label Scotch is in a blend of two other whiskeys, called the “Three Wise Men.” Named for the founder of each brand, each of whose first name begins with the letter “J,” the “Three Wise Men” incorporates equal parts Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam, and Johnnie Walker. This varied shooter includes samples of three types of whiskey, the first being Tennessee whiskey, the second bourbon, and the third, Johnnie Walker, blended Scotch. Another popular variance of this mixer is called the “Four Fine Friends,” with equal parts of the former whiskeys and a corresponding amount of Jose Cuervo tequila.
Finally, the king of Walker Red Label mixed drinks is known as a “Scottish Highland liqueur,” and, while there are many variants, the essential ingredients are Scotch and warm honey. Those whom have the time to produce a bottle of this may use raw honey, in addition to lemon zest, crushed fennel seeds, and crushed angelica root for seasoning. After these previous and additional ingredients have been tossed together, the bottle of liqueur should be set aside in a dark pace for two to six weeks, then strained and served in an especially appreciable manner “on the rocks,” also known as simply adding ice. If the liqueur appears cloudy, the racking process used in wine-making will help to clear the spirit.
When used for its marketed purpose as an all-purpose Scotch whiskey meant for blending, Johnnie Walker Red Label cannot be beat. Such drinks as the Walker-and-water, Three Wise Men, Four Fine Friends, and Highland liqueur present an exciting bouquet of taste on a budget that most can afford.
