Johnnie Walker just released its newest limited-time offering, Blue Label Ice Chalet — a collaboration with Perfect Moment Ski Wear and brand ambassador Priyanka Chopra. Designed by Master Blender Emma Walker, Ice Chalet’s suggested serve is “ultra-cold, straight from the freezer at 23°F.” The blend contains whiskies from Brora, Clynelish, and Dalwhinnie, matured predominantly in refill American oak, rejuvenated heavily charred casks, and ex-American oak bourbon casks, with some wine and sherry casks.
I tasted this in two different serves: neat at room temperature, and from the freezer.
Tasting Notes — Room Temperature
Color: Rich honey gold
Nose: Profound Speyside influence — apple, honey, orchard fruit, apple turnover, buttery lemon pound cake, toffee, vanilla, beef tallow running throughout
Palate: Short and sharp at first, weak peat-reek. Second sip reveals more richness — orchard fruits and toffee return alongside a thickening quality
Tasting Notes — From the Freezer
Appearance: Cloudy burnt amber, pours more syrupy
Nose: Muted — freezing locks down the congeners
Palate: Remarkably impressive. Like drinking a caramel apple that’s been smoking a cigar. Chilling dramatically transforms the flavor.
Comparison: Standard Blue Label
Nose: Very light — subtle peat, hint of maltiness
Palate: Very soft, soft peat — reminiscent of the remnants of an A&W cream soda
Final Thoughts
Skip the standard Blue. The Ice Chalet is genuinely better from the freezer — a first for me and a surprisingly impressive result.
Originally published on Wine & Whiskey Globe. Sample received.