Johnnie Walker, the iconic Scotch whisky brand, collaborated with HBO's epic fantasy series, Game of Thrones, to create a truly unique and memorable collection of whiskies. This wasn't just a simple branding exercise; it was a carefully crafted experience designed to appeal to both ardent fans of the show and discerning whisky lovers. This article delves into the details of this remarkable collaboration, exploring the individual whiskies and the overall impact it had on the world of Scotch.
What Johnnie Walker Game of Thrones Whiskies are There?
The Johnnie Walker Game of Thrones collection consisted of eight unique blends, each representing one of the Great Houses of Westeros: House Stark, House Targaryen, House Lannister, House Baratheon, House Tyrell, House Greyjoy, House Martell, and House Arryn. Each blend was carefully crafted to reflect the character and spirit of its corresponding house, resulting in a diverse range of flavor profiles. The bottles themselves were also works of art, featuring custom designs reflecting the sigils and aesthetics of each house. They’re highly sought after by collectors now, making them a potentially lucrative investment, as well as a treat for the palate.
Are the Johnnie Walker Game of Thrones Whiskies Rare?
Yes, the Johnnie Walker Game of Thrones whiskies are now considered rare. Production was limited, and as the popularity of both the whisky and the TV series continues, finding bottles on the secondary market often comes at a premium price. Many collectors actively seek out complete sets of all eight blends, further driving up the demand and rarity of individual bottles. This makes securing a bottle (or the complete set) a challenging, but potentially rewarding, endeavor for enthusiasts.
How Much are the Johnnie Walker Game of Thrones Whiskies Worth?
The value of the Johnnie Walker Game of Thrones whiskies varies considerably depending on the specific blend, condition of the bottle, and the seller's location. Generally, prices are significantly higher than their original retail price, especially for complete sets or those in pristine condition. Online auction sites and specialist whisky retailers are good places to check current pricing, although prices can fluctuate based on market demand.
Which Johnnie Walker Game of Thrones Whisky is the Best?
This is entirely subjective! The beauty of the collection lies in the diversity of its blends. Each whisky offers a distinct flavor profile mirroring the personality of its associated House. For example, the bold and smoky flavors of the House Stark blend reflect the family’s resilience and connection to the North, while the rich and complex notes of the House Targaryen blend represent the dynasty’s regal power and fiery nature. The "best" whisky ultimately comes down to personal preference. Exploring the tasting notes for each blend can help you identify which might best suit your palate.
Where Can I Buy Johnnie Walker Game of Thrones Whisky?
Finding these whiskies can be tricky. While they are no longer widely available in standard liquor stores, you may find them in specialist whisky shops, online retailers specializing in rare spirits, or through online auction sites like eBay. Be aware of counterfeit products and only purchase from reputable vendors. Always carefully inspect the bottle and its packaging before purchasing to ensure authenticity.
Is the Johnnie Walker Game of Thrones Collection Worth Collecting?
For ardent fans of both Game of Thrones and fine Scotch whisky, collecting the entire Johnnie Walker Game of Thrones series is a highly rewarding endeavor. Not only does it offer a unique tasting experience showcasing a range of flavor profiles, but the beautifully designed bottles themselves represent desirable collector's items. The increasing rarity of these whiskies further contributes to their value, potentially making the collection a sound investment as well as a symbol of passion for both the show and the spirit.
In conclusion, the Johnnie Walker Game of Thrones collection represents a successful blending of two powerful brands, resulting in a memorable series of limited edition whiskies. Their rarity and unique character continue to attract collectors and enthusiasts alike, cementing their place in whisky history.