Mention of Red Label reminded me of Four Roses and Black Velvet, which were cheap whiskies which could be found during WW2 when better stuff was unavailable. Four Noses and Black Death were their nicknames.
Now, both seem to have a better reputation, often used in mixed drinks. Four Roses even has an expensive blend called Single Barrel and is now owned by Japanese Kirin.
I also remember a Lord Calvert.