Johnnie Walker debuts Black Ruby RTD
Following the launch of Johnnie Walker Black Ruby last year, Diageo has introduced a ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail featuring blackberry and soda in Australia.
Johnnie Walker introduced Black Ruby last year as an extension of its Black Label line. The blended whisky is the first core expression crafted by master blender Dr Emma Walker.
Following a pilot in Australia and the global travel retail (GTR) sector, Black Ruby has been rolling out to markets worldwide since March 2025. The expression has already gathered industry accolades, including a Gold medal at The Scotch Whisky Masters 2025.
The expression has returned to its test market in Australia with the launch of Johnnie Walker Black Ruby Blackberry & Soda, tapping into the growing RTD market.
Described as a twist on a classic Tom Collins, the blackberry and elderflower-flavoured sparkling Whisky Spritz was launched in late August 2025, exclusively at Dan Murphy’s and BWS.
Sarah Shimmons, marketing and innovation director at Diageo Australia, said: “Johnnie Walker Black Ruby Blackberry & Soda is a bold step forward for whisky. We’ve taken the iconic character of Johnnie Walker Black Label and reimagined it for a new generation, with a flavour profile and format that feel refreshingly modern.
“This innovation speaks to the spirit of progress at the heart of our brand, always moving forward, always evolving to meet the moment.”
Made in Australia and offered at 6% ABV, Black Ruby Blackberry & Soda is said to reflect Johnnie Walker’s commitment to local tastes and occasions.
The RTD is available in a 375ml can, retailing for AUS$10 (US$6.50), and in packs of four for AUS$34 (US$22).
Launch event
On 21 August, Diageo Australia held the official Johnnie Walker Black Ruby Blackberry & Soda launch event at Chin Chin in Sydney.
Shimmons added: “Johnnie Walker Black Ruby Blackberry & Soda is more than just a product. It represents a new direction for Johnnie Walker in Australia. We are reimagining Scotch to feel more contemporary and inclusive, while still grounded in the quality people expect from Johnnie Walker. This innovation speaks to the spirit of progress that drives everything we do.”
The event brought together creators, media, artists, and cultural tastemakers, including influencer Riley Hemson, model Amy Pejkovic, TV personalities Austen Bugeja, Claudia Bonifazio, and Paul Versace, chef Khanh Ong, and former soccer player Lachy McLean.
Guests were treated to a live performance by pop artist Charley and a DJ set by Mowgli May and Hey Boone.
The event also announced the Walk to Austin Award, presented by Johnnie Walker Black Ruby. As the Official Whisky Partner of SXSW Sydney 2025 and the presenting partner of the SXSW Sydney 2025 Music Festival, Johnnie Walker Black Ruby will provide one emerging Australian artist with an incredible opportunity: a guaranteed performance slot at SXSW in Austin in 2026.
Charley commented: “Being part of this moment with Johnnie Walker is really special. The Walk to Austin Award is such an incredible opportunity for emerging artists. Having the chance to take your music from here to a global stage like SXSW in Austin is game-changing, and it’s amazing to see a brand creating space for that kind of breakthrough.”
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