I've never been able to afford Johnnie Walker Blue, though I am partial to the Black variety. Russians, though, seem to have no problem affording it. The land of vodka and harsh winters is now the biggest market for the world's priciest Scotch whisky according to the Financial Times.
Vodka still accounts for more than 90 per cent of the country's spirits sales, largely because Russians are not used to the taste of whisky or gin. Despite this barrier sales of costly libations have been rising largely due to the populations increased wealth.
Last year Russia became the first European country to import the "King George V" edition of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, which can go for up to $1,000. That's quite a markup over the everyday version, which sells for a mere $180 a bottle.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
6-04-2008 @ 4:11PM
John said...
"First European country in Europe"?
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6-04-2008 @ 4:58PM
John said...
I see that you fixed that "European in Europe" thing, and yes, Blue label is indeed the best blended scotch.
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6-04-2008 @ 5:41PM
Mad William Flint said...
Blue is ok. It is a remarkably smooth blend. But as a blend it really loses any distinctive character of the singles.
If smooth is what you're looking for I'm not sure why this is a direction worth going.
I think it's a poor-man's high-end scotch.
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