Johnnie Walker Debuts First Permanent Portfolio Addition in 15+ Years With Black Cask Scotch

(Photo: Johnnie Walker)

On Thursday, Johnnie Walker announced it’s adding a permanent expression to its lineup for the first time in more than 15 years. Black Cask, a blended Scotch whisky aged in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels, goes on sale March 1 at a suggested retail price of $34.99 per 750-milliliter bottle. It is bottled at 43% ABV (86 proof) and will be sold at spirit retailers across the United States.

Unlike many blended Scotch whiskies, which age in a mix of cask types, Black Cask uses only American white oak ex-bourbon barrels — a choice intended to push the flavor profile toward the sweeter end of the Scotch spectrum. Expect notes of vanilla, caramel, baking spice and warm oak, says Johnnie Walker

The whiskies inside come from three distilleries: Cameronbridge, a grain whisky producer, and the single malt distilleries Glen Elgin and Roseisle. All three also supply whiskies that appear in Johnnie Walker Black Label.

Master Blender Dr. Emma Walker led the development.

“At Johnnie Walker we are constantly pushing the boundaries of what great whisky can be,” Walker said in a news release. “For more than 200 years, Johnnie Walker has shaped the world of Scotch, and that heritage gives us the confidence and authority to innovate. With Black Cask, we’ve brought together two remarkable whisky traditions in a way only Johnnie Walker can, starting with some of the most expressive whiskies from the heart of Black Label and maturing them exclusively in American white oak ex‑bourbon barrels to unlock new depth, sweetness, and warmth. The result is a beautifully layered whisky that feels excitingly new yet remains unmistakably Johnnie Walker.”

Parent company Diageo is supporting Black Cask with a national campaign that includes tastings and events in Texas, California, Florida, New York, and New Jersey. Dr. Emma Walker will lead educational sessions throughout the rollout.

Jesse Damashek, SVP of North America Whisky Portfolio at Diageo, said the release reflects where American drinkers’ tastes are heading.

“Johnnie Walker has never stopped moving forward. Progress and innovation are at the core of what we stand for embodied by ‘Keep Walking,'” he said. “Black Cask is a powerful example of how we break through the expected: a new whisky that reflects evolving tastes while staying true to what people love about Johnnie Walker. This whisky reinforces our commitment to delivering the world’s most exceptional whisky experiences.”

What Sets Black Cask Apart From Black Label

Black Label uses a blend of cask types including ex-bourbon and refill casks. Black Cask commits to ex-bourbon barrels only. That narrower approach amplifies the vanilla and caramel notes that come from American white oak, according to Johnnie Walker, bringing the scotch closer to the flavor territory that American whiskey drinkers recognize.

Both expressions use whiskies from the same core distilleries, but the barrel choice drives them in different directions. Black Cask is a distinct product, not a replacement.

How to Drink It

Johnnie Walker recommends serving Black Cask neat, over ice, or in cocktails. Two recipes accompany the launch.

Black Cask Old Fashioned

This build plays up the whisky’s vanilla, caramel, and spice notes.

• 1.5 oz Johnnie Walker Black Cask Blended Scotch Whisky
• 0.25 oz rich honey syrup (4:1 honey to water)
• 1 dash almond bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Garnish: orange peel

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a rocks glass over ice and stir. Garnish with an orange peel.

Black Cask Gold Rush

A citrus-forward serve that draws out the whisky’s oak and spice.

• 1.5 oz Johnnie Walker Black Cask Blended Scotch Whisky
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz cinnamon honey syrup
• Garnish: cinnamon stick

Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice. Strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.