John Barr Blended Scotch is a smooth, no-nonsense whisky that’s perfect for mixing. Crafted from a blend of malt and grain whiskies, it’s got just the right balance of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of soft smoke. Whether you’re shaking up an Old Fashioned, stirring a Rob Roy, or just pouring it over ice, John Barr brings the flavor without stealing the spotlight.
TL;DR – Rooted in Scottish tradition but made for everyday enjoyment, John Barr is a go-to bottle for anyone who loves a dynamic classic cocktail.
Review: Flavor Camp
Photo: Reece Sims
Flavor Camps
Overall Rating
Total Score: 34/50
Aroma: 5/9
Taste: 5/9
Finish: 3.5/5
Distinctiveness: 3/5
Overall Drinkability/Balance: 6/9
Value for Price: 8/8
Appearance: 3.5/5
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Golden Amber - The bottle is sleek, and very well friendly (if you know, you know).
- Aroma: Licorice-infused smoke, there's a slight touch of ethanol on the nose, however, vanilla ice cream, menthol, ripe pears, gala apples and white pepper emerge.
- Taste & Mouthfeel: The palate starts with a light, chocolatey smoke with peppery spice, anise, ginger, heather, banana peels and has a touch of a note of white rabbit candies (an asian milk candy).
- Finish: The finish is mouthwatering, leaving us wanting more.
- Distinctiveness: It's definitely a lightly peated, blended Scotch.
- Overall Drinkability & Balance: It's slightly hot on the palate at 40% ABV but based on the price point, this is something that would be a very dynamic base to cocktails and give Johnnie Walker Black label a good run for its money.
Product Details
- Distiller: Whyte & Mackay
- Type: Blended Scotch Whisky
- Age: No Age Statement (but uses a blend of whiskies up to 15 years old)
- Still Type: Not disclosed (likely a mix of pot and column)
- Cask Type(s): ex-Bourbon American oak and sherry seasoned European oak casks
- Origin: Scotland (it's a blended whisky)
- Composition: A blend of 40+ malt and grain whiskies from the Highlands and Speyside
- ABV: 40%
- # of Distillations: Not Disclosed
- Price: $31.99 CAD (2024)
Comments / Notes:
- A Masterful Blend: John Barr Reserve Blend unites Highland malt and grain whiskies for structure and richness, balanced by mellow Speyside varieties for a smooth finish.
- Crafted Expertise: Each whisky is hand-selected and expertly blended by a 3rd-generation master blender, using time-honoured techniques to create a distinctive, rewarding taste.
- Heritage & Recognition: Part of the esteemed Whyte & Mackay portfolio, John Barr Reserve earned the highest score in its category at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2016.
- Crushable / Daily Drinker
- Cocktail Worthy
- Special Occasion Sipper Only
- Weird & Wonderful
- Skip It
Food Pairing Recommendations: Milk Chocolate
Cocktail Recommendations: Lodge Negroni
