Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Port Ellen Second Edition is one of the most compelling releases in the entire Blue Label family, built around stocks from Port Ellen, the legendary Islay distillery that closed in 1983 and whose remaining casks grow rarer with every passing year. Master Blender Jim Beveridge OBE assembled this expression from eight whiskies in total, including casks from Port Ellen alongside seven additional rare and ghost distilleries: Caledonian, Carsebridge, Mortlach, Blair Athol, Craigellachie, Duchanne, and Clynelish. The result is an extraordinarily layered blend that carries the maritime peat and coastal smoke of Port Ellen while delivering the depth, richness, and silky refinement that defines Blue Label. Presented in a striking green bottle with a premium book-style gift box, this is a serious collector expression for those who understand how rare Port Ellen stocks have become.
ABV / Proof
| Producer |
John Walker & Sons, Scotland (Diageo) |
| Master Blender |
Jim Beveridge OBE |
| Type |
Blended Scotch Whisky |
| Edition |
Ghost and Rare — Port Ellen Second Edition |
| Ghost Distillery |
Port Ellen (closed 1983) |
| Additional Whiskies |
Caledonian, Carsebridge, Mortlach, Blair Athol, Craigellachie, Duchanne, Clynelish |
| Age Statement |
NAS (No Age Statement) |
| ABV |
43.8% |
| Proof |
87.6 Proof |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Country |
Scotland |
| Packaging |
Premium book-style gift box included |
Tasting Notes
Color: Rich golden amber with a warm copper glow
Nose: Coastal smoke and gentle maritime peat from Port Ellen open first, followed by honey, toasted oak, dried apricot, and a layer of sweet malt from the supporting grain distilleries.
Palate: Beautifully balanced and complex, with waves of smoked vanilla, salted caramel, ripe stone fruit, dark chocolate, and a building spice from the Speyside malts. The ghost distillery character adds an irreplaceable depth that no modern blend can replicate.
Finish: Long and layered, with lingering coastal smoke, beeswax, warm oak spice, and a final whisper of sweetened peat that is unmistakably Port Ellen.
FAQ
What is Port Ellen and why does it matter?
Port Ellen was one of Islay's most revered distilleries before closing in 1983. Its remaining casks are among the most sought-after in the Scotch whisky world. Any expression featuring Port Ellen stock is a rare and finite collector opportunity that cannot be recreated once the casks are exhausted.
What is the Ghost and Rare series?
Ghost and Rare is a special tier above standard Blue Label, built specifically around stocks from permanently closed ghost distilleries. Each edition spotlights a different ghost distillery alongside rare supporting whiskies. Previous editions have featured Brora and Pittyvaich. Once an edition sells out it is gone permanently.
How does this compare to standard Johnnie Walker Blue Label?
This sits above standard Blue Label in rarity and complexity. Standard Blue Label draws from Diageo's full cask reserves. Ghost and Rare Port Ellen is built from a strictly limited pool of ghost distillery stocks that grow smaller every year, making each bottle a piece of Scotch whisky history.
Is this a limited edition?
Yes. This is a finite release with no scheduled replenishment. When stock is gone, it will not be reordered. If you are considering this bottle, we recommend securing it now.
Where can I buy Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Port Ellen online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
