As families gather to celebrate Lunar New Year, food and beverage traditions fill the table. While those familiar items connect the past, present and future, one celebrated liquor brand continues its own tradition. Marking the 13th offering, this Johnnie Walker Blue Label Year of the Horse bottle is one that deserves prime space on the shelf.
The first release in the new zodiac cycle, this year’s offering is designed by Hong Kong-born, London-based fashion designer and haute couturier Robert Wun. Drawing inspiration from both Johnnie Walker’s “Keep Walking” mantra and the strength, resilience and forward momentum of the galloping horse, the scene encourages people to look ahead, embrace the moment and be determined.
Mariana Assis, Global Head of Johnnie Walker Luxury Innovation believes that the imagery connects the brand’s heritage while appreciating future innovation. That balance of respecting the past while still evolving is key to Johnnie Walker’s success over its 200 years. It is one of the reasons why the liquor brand appeals to all generations.
Since the Year of the Horse encourages people to push boundaries and embrace optimism, the special release serves as a reminder that luxurious moments deserve their moment. Whether it is carving out a moment during the day or putting it on the calendar, meaningful events should always be part of a person’s life.
Ready to Toast Lunar New Year with Johnnie Walker Blue Label Year of the Horse?
In honor of Lunar New Year, Johnnie Walker shared two specialty cocktails. Each cocktail puts the classic whisky front and center, but also infuses Asian flavors and ingredients in every sip. These offerings are complex yet still approachable. In a way, they epitomize both the innovation and tradition that drinkers have come to expect from Johnnie Walker.
The Fire Horse
An aromatic cocktail, the first sip ignites the palate with warm spices. While there is a slight sweetness, it is the luscious mouthfeel that is a little unexpected. For people who appreciate swicy food trends, this cocktail will quickly become a top choice.
Ingredients
- 1.25 oz Johnnie Walker Blue Label
- 1 oz bittersweet aperitif (or Chinotto), lightly infused with crushed Szechuan peppercorn
- 0.75 oz crème de cacao
Method
Stir with ice until chilled and smooth. Strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass. Garnish with an orange twist.
Jade & Gold
A slightly tropical nod that takes the Johnnie Walker whisky in festive direction, this cocktail feels as if it could be sipped on a sandy shore. The combination of coconut and pineapple with whisky is unexpected but quite enjoyable. Anyone who loves a Tiki cocktail would happily sip this beverage.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Johnnie Walker Blue Label
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- 0.25 oz simple syrup
- 0.75 oz coconut cream
- 1 dash aromatic bitters
Method
- Shake all ingredients with ice until creamy and cold. Strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with a fresh orchid or pineapple leaf.
The Striding Ember
Bubbles always bring the celebratory mood. This twist on a highball gets a bold citrus note from the yuzu. It is a smart nod to Asian ingredients while still be approachable.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Johnnie Walker Blue Label
- 0.5 oz yuzu juice (or lemon-lime blend)
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 0.25 oz Calpico (or light yogurt drink)
- Soda water to top
Method
- Shake whisky, citrus, simple syrup, and Calpico with ice. Strain into a tall glass over fresh ice. Top with soda water and garnish with a lemon twist.
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