As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting a wide variety of spirits, including whisky. When it comes to comparing Old Parr and Johnnie Walker Black, I must say that both have their merits and offer a delightful drinking experience.
Let's start with Old Parr. This blend has a captivating nose that immediately draws you in. It's rich, warm, and inviting, with notes of honey, dried fruits, and a hint of oak. The aroma alone is enough to make you want to savor every sip.
Moving on to the palate, Old Parr delivers a smooth and velvety mouthfeel. It's incredibly easy to drink, with flavors of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of spice. The balance of sweetness and subtle complexity makes it a pleasure to sip on its own or even with a splash of water.
Johnnie Walker Black, on the other hand, presents a different character. It's smokier and more robust in comparison. The nose is a bit more subdued, with notes of peat smoke, dark chocolate, and a touch of citrus. While it may not have the same level of complexity as Old Parr on the nose, it still offers an enticing and intriguing aroma.
The palate of Johnnie Walker Black is where it truly shines. The smokiness takes center stage, with flavors of charred oak, rich malt, and a hint of dried fruits. It has a bolder and more assertive profile, with a lingering finish that leaves a pleasant smoky aftertaste.
In terms of mouthfeel, Old Parr has the upper hand. It has a luscious and creamy texture that coats your palate, allowing the flavors to linger and develop. Johnnie Walker Black, while still smooth, lacks that same level of velvety indulgence.
When it comes down to choosing between the two, it really depends on personal preferences. If you enjoy a whisky with a captivating nose and a luxurious mouthfeel, Old Parr is the way to go. On the other hand, if you're a fan of smoky and robust whiskies with a bolder flavor profile, Johnnie Walker Black is an excellent choice.
Both Old Parr and Johnnie Walker Black are commendable blends for their respective qualities. It ultimately boils down to what you're looking for in a whisky and the experience you desire. So, whether you choose Old Parr for its enticing nose and creamy mouthfeel, or Johnnie Walker Black for its smoky complexity, you can't go wrong with either option. Cheers!