Johnnie Walker unveils 2021 Chinese New Year editions

Top Scotch whiskymaker Johnnie Walker has launched two exclusive Chinese New Year limited editions: an intricately illustrated Johnnie Walker Blue Label and a first-of-its-kind John Walker & Sons King George V limited edition.

John Walker & Sons King George V is a combination of whiskies originally crafted to celebrate the first Royal Warrant granted to Johnnie Walker in 1934 to supply Scotch whisky to the British Royal Household. Drawn from extremely rare casks from the now-silent Port Ellen distillery, Johnnie Walker says the whisky is elegantly rich and creamy.

It is the first limited edition of the John Walker & Sons King George V to be released and features bespoke artwork with a modern take on traditional Chinese patterns and designs.

Julie Bramham, Johnnie Walker global brand director, said: "The wonderful illustrations on the new John Walker & Sons King George V limited edition are a fitting tribute to this exquisite whisky... We're delighted to see it added to our Chinese New Year offering."

Johnnie Walker Blue Label has a rich history of Chinese New Year releases, each year bringing a bespoke pack and bottle design celebrating that year's Zodiac sign. The 2021 design was created by award-winning Chinese artist Shirley Gong and features illustrations of the ox, a symbol of prosperity and growth.

Shirley said: "I wanted this limited edition to be something that would celebrate and honour Chinese New Year as well as a piece of art that speaks to the rare craft and character of Johnnie Walker Blue Label. I was keen to create something that reflected the majesty of the ox, but also a work that inspired people to think about the future in a positive and optimistic way."

Both 2021 Chinese New Year limited-edition designs are available in selected markets globally at a recommended price of £200 for the Johnnie Walker Blue Label release and £400 for the John Walker & Sons King George V edition.

20 November 2020 - Bethany Whymark