SHARE THE JOY THIS HOLIDAY
Every whisky has a tale to tell, but few are as storied as the legacy of Johnnie Walker. Why has it become the world’s most popular whisky? As the holiday season begins, share it around and the answer will be obvious.
It was in the back of John Walker’s modest grocery store, in western Scotland, where the founder of the world’s most famous whisky first dabbled in the art of blending in the 1820s. He shared this passion with his son Alexander, whose global ambitions took the family’s whiskies to the far reaches of the world. Alexander would coax merchant captains into selling shipments wherever their trade routes led, and in time a following emerged, demand grew and the legend took root.
The Walkers were business savvy and recognized opportunities to set their whisky apart. By using a diagonal label, they instantly created a distinction on the shelf. The iconic square bottle was not just for looks; it also safeguarded against breakage during voyages to new markets. By 1920, Johnnie Walker would be available in 120 countries, and that global reputation has only flourished since then.
So how does a blend manage to remain relevant when single malt culture seems so dominant? Johnnie Walker has the distinct advantage of being made with some of the best single malts in the world — whiskies from all over Scotland, including Cardhu, Caol Ila, Blair Athol and Cameronbridge — carefully blended to ensure consistent quality and taste in every drop.
Jim Beveridge is one of only six master blenders in Johnnie Walker’s 200-year history. As the custodian of an unrivalled reserve containing more than eight million casks of Scotch whisky, drawn from more than 30 distilleries across Scotland, he leads a team of 12 men and women who are committed to the pursuit of blending excellence.
Differentiated by label colour, each Johnnie Walker blend is unique in its own right, showcasing the distinctive flavours, aromas and textures that contribute to that unmistakably smooth, gently smoky Johnnie Walker personality. Taken neat, with a drop of water, a splash of mix, or in cocktails both understated and extravagant, this is a whisky that makes a statement.
Discover it for yourself this holiday season. Whether you’re entertaining or looking for the perfect gift, Johnnie Walker offers endless inspiration. For more information, visit lcbo.com/johnniewalker