Ballantine’s pays tribute to Gorillaz and Kiss
Chivas Brothers has introduced two new bottles in its Ballantine’s True Music Icons series, honouring English virtual band Gorillaz and American rock band Kiss.
The two new limited editions are released as part of Ballantine’s annual True Music Icons series, which celebrates artists and bands that have shaped music culture.
Previous releases in the series include tributes to Elton John, John Lennon, AC/DC, and Queen.
Paul-Andre Vacheron, global marketing director for Ballantine’s at Chivas Brothers, commented: “The True Music Icons series continues to offer fans a unique way to celebrate the artists they love by recognising their impact, ongoing influence, and adding something special to their collection.”
The first of this year’s releases celebrates Gorillaz, described as ‘one of the most pioneering and visually iconic bands in modern music’.
Formed by musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett, the band is recognised for its genre-blending sound, musical and visual innovation, and creativity, featuring four digital Gorillaz band members: Murdoc Niccals, 2D, Russel Hobbs, and Noodle.
The limited-edition Ballantine’s design marks the band’s 25 years of cultural impact, and features a never-before-seen illustration of the band.
Vacheron added: “This edition of True Music Icons continues our commitment to celebrating artists who defy convention. At Ballantine’s, we’ve always stood for those who stay true to who they are, and this Gorillaz collection is a toast to their pioneering spirit and the impact they’ve made in music.”
Kiss tribute
The second release for 2025 celebrates American rock band Kiss, recognised for its ‘explosive style’ and black and white face paint.
The limited-edition bottle features visuals inspired by Kiss’ Destroyer album cover, reimagined on a bottle of Ballantine’s Finest. The design is theatrical, unmistakably represents Kiss, and pays tribute to a pivotal moment in the band’s legacy and rock history.
The launch comes just before an exciting season for the band, as they return to the stage at ‘Kiss Kruise: Landlocked In Vegas’ this November to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Kiss Army fan club.
Vacheron commented: “At Ballantine’s, we’ve always stood for those who stay true to who they are, and this Kiss collection is a toast to the bands iconic style and personality and the impact they’ve made in music.”
Both Ballantine’s True Music Icons’ new limited editions are available in select markets worldwide from October 2025.
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