This aged version of the classic Red Label enjoys a similar cult following. Its unique complexity is achieved by expertly blending an extremely diverse, but complementary range of malt whiskies, each of which has been matured for a minimum of 12 years and some for much longer. In total, up to 40 malts and grain whiskies make up the Black Label blend. Island and Islay malts deliver spice, richness and lingering peat. Speyside malts make an important contribution to the depth of taste, bringing smoky malt, fruitiness, apple freshness and a rich sherry character to the blend. At the heart of Black Label lies 12 year old Cardhu, an outstanding malt from Speyside, which imparts silkiness, a characteristic which has made it famous as a single malt.

To date, Black Label has won more international awards for excellence than any other deluxe whisky. In the 1880s, Old Highland won medals in Sydney and Paris. Over 100 years later, in 1994, Black Label picked up gold medals at the 1994 Monde Selection Awards and the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC), where it also won a trophy for Best Blended Whisky. In 1996, it won gold again at IWSC for the best deluxe Scotch Whisky. 40% Alc./Vol.