William Mahoney asked:
I have inherited, from my grandfather, an unopened bottle of Johnny Walker Scotch Whiskey from the year 1820. What is the value if any, and does it still taste good? And how does it compare to 12 year old MacAllan or 12 year old Dalmore? And is it really a scotch whiskey?

Charlie Says:

Dear William,

If your bottle was really made in 1820 you are a very lucky man indeed: it will be worth a fortune. Unfortunately, I think there is some confusion: 1820 was the date that Johnnie Walker opened his shop. It is unlikely that he would have filled branded glass bottles. Dr Nicholas Morgan, United Distillers archivist and regular scholar, will be delighted to advise about it if you describe the bottle to him in detail (0181 846 8040). Martin Green is Christie's whisky expert and will give you a valuation (0141 332 8134) If it is securely stoppered, it should taste fine - I should love to taste it with you, and I would compare it with the current Black Label. It is, of course, a blend (albeit de luxe), not a single malt, so it is a bit unfair to compare it with malts like The Macallan or Dalmore. Both these are fairly robust and full bodied, and, depending on your bottle's age, you may be happily surprised how full bodied your Black Label is. Send me your tasting notes if you open it!

Best wishes,

Charles MacLean