From its humble beginnings in a small grocery shop in Kilmarnock, Scotland, in 1820, Johnnie Walker has grown into one of the most recognized whisky brands worldwide. The brand’s journey has been defined by innovation, consistency, and a relentless commitment to quality, evolving with changing tastes while retaining its iconic identity. Each new expression reflects a balance of tradition and modernity, and the Johnnie Walker Black Ruby is no exception. With its vibrant, fruit-forward profile and smooth finish, Black Ruby represents a bold evolution of the brand – honoring heritage while appealing to contemporary whisky enthusiasts seeking richness, complexity, and character.
In August 2024, Johnnie Walker introduced the Black Ruby as a part of its core range, marking a significant departure from its traditional offerings. This new expression is designed to appeal to those who appreciate a sweeter, fruitier whisky without compromising on the brand's signature smoothness and complexity.
The Black Ruby was developed under the guidance of Dr. Emma Walker, Johnnie Walker's Master Blender. Drawing inspiration from the rich heritage of the Black Label series, she sought to create a whisky that retained the brand's iconic smoothness while introducing a bold, fruit-forward character. The result is a blend that showcases the versatility of Johnnie Walker's blending expertise.
The Black Ruby boasts a deep, ruby-red hue, setting it apart visually from other Johnnie Walker expressions. This vibrant color hints at the rich, berry-infused flavors contained within.
On the nose, the Black Ruby presents a bouquet of dark fruits, including blackcurrant, raspberry, and plum. These aromas are complemented by subtle notes of vanilla and a faint wisp of smoke, adding depth and intrigue.
The palate is where the Black Ruby truly shines. It delivers a smooth, velvety texture with layers of blackberry, plum, fig, and cherry liqueur. Integrated notes of Pedro Ximénez sherry, caramelized oak, and mild peat smoke provide depth and complexity, making each sip a delightful experience.
The finish is long and warming, with lingering sweetness, a touch of spice, and a faint whisper of peat that stays on the palate, ensuring a memorable conclusion to the tasting experience.
The Johnnie Walker Black Ruby is available in various markets, with pricing varying based on location and retailer. For instance, a 700ml bottle is priced starting from $35, though availability may be limited due to high demand.
In the UK, the suggested retail price is around £35, making it an accessible option for those seeking a premium whisky experience without the premium price tag.
As of now, Johnnie Walker Black Ruby is primarily available in India through duty-free outlets only. The 1-liter bottle is for INR 5,900 – the price is consistent across both Hyderabad and Bangalore. There is no official information available for other cities as of now.
Initially, there was speculation about the Black Ruby being a limited edition release. However, Johnnie Walker has confirmed that the Black Ruby is now part of the permanent core range, ensuring its availability for whisky enthusiasts worldwide.
The Black Ruby's bold berry notes make it an excellent base for a variety of cocktails. Johnnie Walker has curated several cocktail recipes that highlight the whisky's unique character:
Johnnie Walker’s portfolio is as diverse as it is iconic, offering something for every whisky lover. Beyond the Black Ruby, the core lineup includes the legendary Red Label, known for its bold, vibrant character; the smooth and balanced Black Label, a classic favorite worldwide; the rich and smoky Green Label, crafted from single malt whiskies; the luxurious Gold Label Reserve, offering honeyed sweetness and indulgence; and the ultra-premium Blue Label, celebrated for its exceptional rarity, complexity, and craftsmanship. Each expression showcases Johnnie Walker’s mastery in blending, reflecting a careful balance of tradition, innovation, and regional whisky heritage.
Johnnie Walker Black Ruby offers a unique, fruit-forward twist on the classic Black Label, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a sweeter, berry-infused whisky experience. While its availability in India is currently limited to duty-free outlets, the consistent pricing across Duty Free stores of various cities provides an opportunity for enthusiasts to acquire this distinctive expression. As part of the permanent Johnnie Walker range, Black Ruby is poised to become a staple for whisky lovers worldwide.
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