Johnnie Walker is a well-known brand of Scotch whisky, and it is produced by Diageo, the largest producer of Scotch in Scotland. Diageo holds an impressive 40% share of the total whisky production in the country, making it a major player in the industry.
To create the distinct flavors and blends that Johnnie Walker is known for, Diageo owns and operates 27 malt distilleries and two grain whisky distilleries. This gives their master blender, Jim Beveridge, and his team an extensive range of whiskies to work with when creating the various Johnnie Walker expressions.
One of the key aspects of Johnnie Walker's production is the use of both malt and grain whiskies. Malt whisky is made from malted barley and is known for its rich and complex flavors. Grain whisky, on the other hand, is made from a mixture of grains and tends to be lighter and more neutral in taste. By blending these two types of whisky together, Johnnie Walker is able to achieve a balanced and harmonious flavor profile.
The malt distilleries owned by Diageo include well-known names like Lagavulin, Talisker, Caol Ila, and Oban, among others. Each of these distilleries has its own unique production methods and flavor profiles, which adds to the diversity of whiskies available for blending.
In addition to the malt distilleries, Diageo also owns two grain distilleries, Cameronbridge and Port Dundas. Grain whisky is typically used as a base for blended whiskies, providing a smooth and consistent foundation for the final product.
The wide range of distilleries under Diageo's ownership allows the master blender to select whiskies from different regions and with varying characteristics. This gives Johnnie Walker the ability to create a range of expressions, from the peaty and smoky flavors of Islay whiskies to the fruity and floral notes of whiskies from the Highlands.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and explore different Johnnie Walker expressions. The depth and complexity of flavors that can be achieved through blending different whiskies is truly remarkable. It is fascinating to see how the master blender can create a cohesive and balanced whisky by combining whiskies from different distilleries.
The distilleries owned by Diageo play a crucial role in the production of Johnnie Walker. Their extensive stock of whiskies provides the foundation for the brand's iconic blends, and their diverse flavors and characteristics contribute to the richness and complexity of the final product.