Cover The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra is believed to be the world’s lightest glass whisky bottle
The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra is believed to be the world’s lightest glass whisky bottle
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Redefining the weight of innovation, the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra represents a progressive paradigm by reshaping luxury whisky bottling standards
For over two centuries, Johnnie Walker has been synonymous with progress and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Now, in a bold move that challenges the conventions of luxury spirits packaging, the Scotch whisky leader has unveiled the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra to discerning collectors and connoisseurs across Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand. This anticipated release marks an exclusive opportunity for Southeast Asia’s most sophisticated palates to acquire what is rapidly becoming whisky’s most coveted new treasure, especially at a time when the appreciation for ultra-premium Scotch has reached unprecedented heights within the region.
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Above Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra unveils an elegant, never-before-seen tear-drop-shaped bottle
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra unveils an elegant, never-before-seen tear-drop-shaped bottle
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Standing at a svelte 8.5 inches and weighing a mere 180 grams (without the 70-gram closure), it is believed to be the world’s lightest glass whisky bottle, far lighter than its 850-gram predecessor. Observing a global shift towards lighter, more delicate high-end spirit vessels, Johnnie Walker embarked on a five-year mission to create a bottle as refined and forward-thinking as the liquid within.
“Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra was born out of an ideation session looking at the future of luxury,” reveals Jeremy Lindley, global design director at Diageo and project lead. “With other categories moving towards lightweight, such as eyewear and high-performance cycling, we questioned whether luxury spirits could follow suit.” A radical reinvention of the iconic square bottle, the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra unveils an elegant, never-before-seen tear-drop-shaped bottle.
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Above The exquisite new expression is crafted by Johnnie Walker master blender Emma Walker
The exquisite new expression is crafted by Johnnie Walker master blender Emma Walker
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This groundbreaking achievement proves that lighter packaging need not compromise beauty or the inherent craftsmanship expected from a luxury brand, signalling a potential shift towards greater sustainability within the industry. Johnnie Walker has even secured a UK patent for this innovation, generously offering royalty-free access to encourage further advancements across the sector.
“Rather than hold this new knowledge close to our chest, we hope that our discoveries will have a positive impact within the wider industry and help discover new possibilities for lighter, lower carbon packaging alternatives,” adds Lindley.
But the innovation doesn’t stop at the bottle. Inside lies a whisky worthy of revolutionary design. Crafted by Johnnie Walker master blender Emma Walker, this exquisite new expression of Johnnie Walker Blue Label is a whisky collector’s grail; sourcing rare and precious liquids from legendary distilleries, including the revered Oban, the long-silent Brora, and the regal Royal Lochnagar, alongside a selection of elusive ghost whiskies. The result of meticulous blending artistry is a whisky rich and deep, bottled at a higher ABV of 55 per cent compared to the standard Blue Label.
Above The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra is far lighter than its 850-gram predecessor
The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra is far lighter than its 850-gram predecessor
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On the nose, expect voluptuous notes of fresh oak at the forefront, followed by the comforting warmth of baked fruits and a delicate hint of cinnamon. A vibrant bouquet of orchard fruits such as apples, white peaches and grapes soon emerges. On the palate, is a delicate dance of fresh red berries, sweet vanilla, and warming wood spice, layered with rich notes of toffee, demerara sugar, and a gentle whisper of wood smoke that lingers on the finish.
“Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra is a truly progressive stride forward for Johnnie Walker, Diageo and the industry,” says Jennifer English, Johnnie Walker’s global brand director. “This new, lightweight bottle is a thing of exquisite beauty; but more importantly, it demonstrates what is possible when it comes to lightweighting glass.” With only 888 bottles produced globally, each limited release is individually numbered, paving the way for luxury whisky bottling standards and an exceptional opportunity for all passionate whisky collectors.
To learn more about beverage alcohol facts, please visit www.drinkiq.com to find out more. Please drink responsibly.
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Images: Diageo
