J&B whiskies

History

The house was born when a young Italian, Giacomo Justerini, settled in London in the 18th century and went into partnership with a local partner to sell wines and spirits. At the beginning of the 19th century a new partner, Alfred Brooks, gave the company its definitive name, and it came to supply the British court. After the end of Prohibition in the United States, the house created J&B Rare, a light, pale blend designed for American tastes, and it was a huge success. It then reached Europe, and in Spain it became a phenomenon for decades. After several mergers, the brand ended up at Diageo.

House style

J&B Rare’s style is light and fresh: green apple, citrus, vanilla, cereal and a touch of honey, with a light body and a short finish. Speyside malts such as Knockando and Auchroisk are the heart of the blend, and the grain brings smoothness. It has no peat and its colour is pale, because the house aims for a delicate profile. It is a blend designed for mixed drinks and long drinks with plenty of ice.

Where to start

J&B Rare is the version in the catalogue and the one everyone knows. It is a classic option for mixed drinks, with cola or soda. If you like its light style, try Knockando 12 Year Old, one of the malts that give it character, to see what that profile is like in a malt. If you’re after a similar blend, compare it with Cutty Sark.

• J&B RareBlend · 40% ABV