The Year of the Wood Dragon: Johnnie Walker Collabs With Influential Asian American Artist on Lunar New Year Whisky
Johnnie Walker released a limited-edition Blue Label expression commemorating the Lunar New Year. (Photo: Johnnie Walker)
On Tuesday, Johnnie Walker announced the release of a limited-edition Blue Label expression commemorating the Lunar New Year. The Diageo-owned scotch whisky brand tapped the Asian American artist, James Jean, to design a label that features the zodiac animal of 2024 — the Wood Dragon.
With a suggested retail price of $269 and bespoke packaging, the scotch whisky is available now until supplies last, according to the brand. Johnnie Walker Lunar New Year Limited Edition is presented at 46% ABV in the U.S. market.
The Wood Dragon symbolizes power, nobility, honor, luck and success in Chinese Culture, according to the South China Morning Post. Johnnie Walker claims that the dragon symbolizes life and creativity, which emphasizes the fighting spirit behind the mantra “Keep Walking.” Lunar New Year is set to take place on February 10.
According to the History Channel, Lunar New Year is one of the biggest annual celebrations within East and Southeast Asian cultures, particularly in Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean communities. It is often celebrated for multiple days and usually begins with the first new moon of the year. Festivities often involve celebrating ancestors and celestial deities.
James Jean is a Taiwanese artist who started his career as a cover artist for comic books from brands like DC and Marvel. His first solo exhibition was held in 2009 with Jonathan LeVine Gallery.
In September, Johnnie Walker shook things up with the release of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami. The riff on the blue label is a nod to the umami flavor profile. Johnnie Walker’s Master Blender Dr. Emma Walker collaborated with the critically acclaimed Japanese chef, Kei Kobayashi. Together, they attempted to recapture the distinctive flavor profile of umami.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year Tasting Notes, Via the Brand
Nose: Mellow and rounded with a dry smokiness and raisin-imbued sweetness.
Taste: Velvety, with rolling waves of rich spice and vanilla.
Finish: Smoke, pepper and spice.
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