Updated May 2026.
Blended Scotch is malt plus grain whisky, distilled and aged in Scotland at least three years. Most US grocery blends print 40% ABV, so a 1.5-ounce pour is one NIAAA drink. A 12-year statement (Johnnie Walker Black) is the youngest whisky in the blend — not extra ethanol versus Red. Caramel (E150a) is allowed; it is not proof. Not a 2023 ranking.
Related: Johnnie Walker, Red vs Black, Scotch vs Irish, Scotch vs bourbon.
What blended actually means
| Rule / bottle | Note |
|---|---|
| Scotch floor | At least 3 years in Scotland (SWR / TTB Scotch class) |
| Blended | Malt + grain. Not “worse single malt” |
| Typical US ABV | 40%. Export 43% lots exist — read the neck |
| 1.5 oz drinks | 1.00 at 40% |
| Widely stocked examples | Johnnie Walker Red / Black, Dewar’s White Label, Chivas 12, Famous Grouse — not scores |
A 750 mL 40% blend is about 17 drinks. Four pours are four drinks. NIAAA binge pattern is a health line, not a target. No invented MSRP. Pour math: Scotch calories, whiskey drinks.
Sources
- Scotch Whisky Regulations 2009 (blended Scotch). TTB Scotch class.
- johnniewalker.com US Red / Black 40% (prior page). Other-market 43%
- NIAAA December 2025.