As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confirm that Johnnie Walker XR 21 is indeed discontinued. This luxurious blend was crafted from a reserve of aged casks, including those from the now silent Brora distillery. The inspiration for this blend came from the hand-written blending notes of Sir Alexander Walker, the grandson of the renowned Johnnie Walker.
I remember tasting Johnnie Walker XR 21 several years ago, and it was truly a remarkable whisky. The complexity and depth of flavors were outstanding, showcasing the expertise and craftsmanship that went into its creation. The use of aged casks, particularly those from Brora, added a unique character to the blend.
However, like many other limited edition whiskies, Johnnie Walker XR 21 has been discontinued. This means that once the existing stock is depleted, it will no longer be available for purchase. Discontinuations are not uncommon in the whisky industry, as brands often release limited editions or special expressions that are only available for a certain period of time.
The decision to discontinue a whisky can be influenced by various factors, including changes in consumer preferences, production limitations, or simply a desire to create space for new releases. In the case of Johnnie Walker XR 21, the exact reasons for its discontinuation may not be publicly disclosed.
It is always disappointing when a beloved whisky is discontinued, especially one as exceptional as Johnnie Walker XR 21. However, the whisky world is constantly evolving, and new expressions and blends continue to be released. This allows enthusiasts to explore and discover new flavors and experiences.
If you were a fan of Johnnie Walker XR 21, I would recommend exploring other offerings from the Johnnie Walker range. They have a wide variety of expressions, each with its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Additionally, there are many other whisky brands that offer similar luxurious blends that may capture your palate in a similar way.
Johnnie Walker XR 21 is indeed discontinued. While this may be disappointing for fans of this exceptional blend, it is important to embrace the ever-changing nature of the whisky world and continue to explore new expressions and flavors.