Following a pilot in 2024, Johnnie Walker has officially launched its newest permanent expression, Black Ruby, worldwide.

Described as a 'sweeter' blend that stays true to the brand's flagship Black Label, the new expression marks Dr Emma Walker's first innovative core range blend since assuming the role of master blender in early 2022. The first limited edition Johnnie Walker created by Walker – Blue Label Ice Chalet – launched in October 2024. Black Ruby debuted with pilot activations in Mexico City, Mexico; Sydney, Australia; and San Juan, Puerto Rico, in 2024. Additionally, the new blend made its global travel retail (GTR) debut at Diageo’s TFWA stand in Cannes in September. The backbone malt whisky for the blend comes from Diageo's Roseisle Distillery. Other distilleries contributing to the Scotch whisky blend include Clynelish, Glenkinchie, Cardhu, Cameronbridge, and Caol Ila, the latter of which contributes to the whisky's lightly smoky character. Walker said: “At the heart of Johnnie Walker Black Ruby is an expression from the boldly progressive distillery of Roseisle. Its sweet red berry notes and light, delicate green grass character are driven by our newest and one of our most innovative single malt distilleries. ​ "The team and I experimented with different distillation techniques at Roseisle, eventually focusing on a uniquely fruity distillate. This experimental whisky-making involved running fermentation for longer than usual to create amplified fruity notes. We also experimented with a longer distillation period for more copper contact in the whisky-making process, which allowed the team to remove some heavier notes in the expression.” ​ Character of Black Ruby The blend includes Roseisle whiskies aged in first-fill red wine casks. Other casks used to mature the blend components include oloroso and Pedro Ximénez Sherry-seasoned casks, as well as ex-Bourbon barrels. The result is a 'bold, berry and dark fruit-led blend' aimed at whisky novices as well as connoisseurs and cocktail enthusiasts. Walker continued: “With vibrant notes of rich raspberry jam, blackberry pie, and deep honeyed sweetness, Johnnie Walker Black Ruby tantalises the palate with bold accents of figs, plums, and Maraschino cherries. There is a subtle hint of spice and delicate smoke that adds to the complexity, creating a unique and vibrant energy in every sip." The whisky is offered at 40% ABV and will be rolled out worldwide from March, including GTR, with a suggested retail price of £35 (US$45). Jennifer English, global brand director of Johnnie Walker, highlighted how innovation is shaping the future of Scotch whisky: “Johnnie Walker Black Ruby marks a bold evolution in our Black Collection that takes inspiration from the classic notes of Black Label and is crafted for the modern cocktail scene. As Scotch embraces more creativity in mixology, we see an opportunity to offer a bold, versatile flavour. Expanding our range – from the smoky allure of Johnnie Walker Double Black to the sweeter nuances of Johnnie Walker Black Ruby – we’re inviting consumers to explore the range. “Black Ruby isn't just another addition to our portfolio; it's here to elevate whisky experiences and redefine how consumers perceive and enjoy Scotch whisky and give bartenders a dynamic palette to craft delicious serves.” For the global launch, the team at Johnnie Walker has created signature cocktails that highlight the expression's character. Earlier this month, Diageo unveiled the Johnnie Walker Vault, a new global luxury platform that unites bespoke collaborative blends with cultural icons and luxurious experiences under one ‘visionary’ banner.

---

Black Ruby Ramble

Highlighting the honeyed sweet notes of Johnnie Walker Black Ruby, this fruit-forward whisky twist on a Bramble is bursting with the vibrant fruit flavour of blackberry jam. Ingredients:

• 35ml Johnnie Walker Black Ruby
• 5ml or one teaspoon Blackberry jam
• 20ml Honey water (two-to-one ratio)
• 20ml Lemon juice

Method: Add all ingredients to a shaker, add cubed ice and hard shake for 10-12 seconds. Double-strain into an elevated tumbler glass and add crushed ice.​ Garnish with two skewered blackberries and a lemon wheel.

---

Black Ruby Sweet & Sour

A bold berried cocktail that unlocks the complex, dark fruit notes of Johnnie Walker Black Ruby in a vibrant ​fruit experience. Ingredients:

• 50ml Johnnie Walker Black Ruby
• 20ml Lemon juice
• 20ml Fresh egg white
• 15ml Honey water (two-to-one ratio)
• 1 bar spoon of Blackberry jam

Method: Add all the ingredients to a shaker. First, dry shake for eight seconds without ice. Then, add cubed ice and shake for 8-10 seconds before double straining into a coupette glass. Garnish with a skewered blackberry and mint spring.

---

Black Ruby Negroni

A modern twist with berry notes to a classic Negroni cocktail. Ingredients:

• 40ml Johnnie Walker Black Ruby
• 20ml Sweet vermouth
• 20ml Red Italian bitter
• 10ml Crème de Mure or other dark berry liqueur

Method: Add all ingredients to a mixing glass, fill with cubed ice and stir for 10-15 seconds until chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh cubed Ice. Garnish with two skewered blackberries or a cherry.