Johnnie Walker Blue canters into Lunar New Year
Diageo-owned Johnnie Walker has partnered with fashion designer Robert Wun to celebrate the Year of the Horse.
Hong Kong-born, London-based haute couturier Wun has designed the packaging for Johnnie Walker’s Blue Label Lunar New Year bottling this year, ahead of the celebrations that start on 17 February.
The partnership is said to reflect the Scotch whisky brand’s commitment to collaborating with innovative cultural voices who challenge norms and redefine contemporary luxury.
Mariana Assis, global head of luxury innovation at Johnnie Walker, said: “Robert Wun is a true pioneer — an artist whose craftsmanship, imagination, and cultural influence mirror the values at the heart of Johnnie Walker. We are always seeking collaborators who, like us, honour tradition while boldly reimagining it for a new era.
“Robert’s vision for the Year of the Horse defines both this Lunar New Year and our own more than 200-year journey. Together, we’ve created something that celebrates heritage while inspiring new possibilities.”
Wun is known for his bold silhouettes, sculptural designs, and avant-garde approach to couture. Recognised as one of the most influential figures in the fashion industry, he made history as the first designer from Hong Kong to be included in the Haute Couture Calendar in Paris.
He has dressed numerous artists, including Beyoncé, Celine Dion, Lady Gaga, Adele, Cardi B, Florence Pugh, and Billy Porter.
In celebration of the Year of the Horse with Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Wun’s design embodies the spirit of the creature, symbolising strength, freedom, and optimism – a tribute to constant motion and the courage to move forward.
Wun commented on the collaboration: “I think there’s beauty in everything, if you put your heart, your soul and your craftsmanship and commitment into it. Being able to work with Johnnie Walker – a brand with such legacy and a strong identity – has been incredibly rewarding.
“Pushing boundaries is integral to storytelling, and that’s how I approach my work: How can I go further? How can I bring magic to the collaboration? Where will the chemistry take us? For the Year of the Horse, this connection felt especially meaningful – the horse charges forward, symbolising optimism and a relentless drive to push boundaries.”
Johnnie Walker Blue Label offers layered notes of rich spices, vanilla, honey, caramel, hazelnut, and dark chocolate, with a smoky finish, best enjoyed neat or with a splash of iced water.
The limited edition Johnnie Walker Blue x Robert Wun is now available at select retailers worldwide, including Singapore, with a recommended retail price of SGD$288 (US$228).
Earlier this month, The Spirits Business rounded up 10 standout bottlings created for the Year of the Horse, from Tequila to Cognac.
Taiwanese single malt brand Kavalan also released its Lunar New Year edition, Golden Steed & Peonies, this January.
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