Johnnie Walker, the world’s number one Scotch Whisky brand, launched an exclusive Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami. The iconic whisky brand teamed up with Michelin star chef Kei Kobayashi to create the blend. Master blender Emma Walker’s (first female master blender in 200 years) unbounded whisky knowledge, combined with Kobayashi’s intricate culinary style, resulted in the new Blue Label blend that effortlessly captures the taste of umami, aka the fifth taste.
“When chef Kei and I set out to capture the essence of umami, we knew we were taking a step into the unknown by embarking on an exciting journey of flavor exploration,” said Walker. “Together, we wanted to push the boundaries of what Scotch could be and bring a truly innovative offering to the world of whisky and flavor.” After searching through ten-million strong reserves of Johnnie Walker casks and carefully handpicking one in every 25,000, Walker and her team presented Kobayashi with an early version of the blend at his restaurant in Paris. The duo then crafted the final version together.
“Umami possesses a mysterious quality that ignites our senses, revealing sumptuous taste, complexity and depth – and I believe we have captured this essence in Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami,” said Kobayashi, per PRNewswire. “The final liquid is a multi-faceted expression of what I interpret umami to be.” The Blue Label Elusive Umami opens with apple and white peach flavors first, followed by the sweetness of mandarins, blood oranges, and red berries. Your senses cannot miss the longer finish of sweet wood spice, a touch of smoked meat, and warming salt and pepper with a long, sweet fruit finish.
Julie Bramham, Global Brand Director of Johnnie Walker, shared, “This limited edition release represents our commitment to push the boundaries of what’s possible in whisky – and Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami does just that. In partnering with Chef Kei to create this unique liquid, we’re driving intrigue and excitement to recruit a new generation of whisky lovers – enhancing a traditional drinking moment to create an immersive experience that elevates all of the senses.”
