Updated July 2026.
Johnnie Walker Red Label and Black Label are both 40% ABV / 80 proof on current US brand pages — one NIAAA drink per 1.5-ounce pour. Both are blended Scotch from Diageo. Black is a 12-year age statement; Red is NAS (Scotch still requires three years in Scotland). Color is caramel plus barrel, not extra proof. Not a TTB score.
Green Label is a different strength (commonly 43% — confirm). Related: Johnnie Walker, blended Scotch, Scotch vs bourbon.
Same proof, different age story
| Red Label | Black Label | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical US ABV | 40% | 40% |
| 1.5 oz drinks | 1.00 | 1.00 |
| 750 mL drinks | ~16.9 | ~16.9 |
| Age | NAS (at least 3 years Scotch floor) | At least 12 years in the blend |
| Class | Blended Scotch | Blended Scotch |
Four Red or Black pours are four drinks. NIAAA binge pattern is a health line, not a target. Other-market bottles can print 43% — read the neck. No 2026 MSRP. Pour math: Scotch calories.
Sources
- johnniewalker.com US Red and Black: 40% ABV (Diageo; prior page).
- Scotch Whisky Regulations: at least 3 years; blended = malt + grain. Black 12-year statement.
- Export 43% lots NIAAA December 2025. No MSRP.