Johnnie Walker Launches Limited Edition Blue Label Year Of The Horse In Collaboration With Designer Robert Wun

For over a decade, Johnnie Walker has celebrated the Lunar New Year by merging the heritage of Scottish distilling with the vibrant artistry of the Chinese Zodiac. To usher in 2026, the brand has unveiled its latest masterpiece: the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Year of the Horse Limited Edition. This release is not merely a bottle of whisky; it is a high-fashion collaboration that captures the spirit of "Keep Walking" through the lens of one of the world’s most exciting designers.

The Vision: A Collaboration With Robert Wun

For the 2026 Year of the Horse, Johnnie Walker has partnered with Hong Kong-born, London-based haute couturier Robert Wun. Known for his avant-garde, sculptural silhouettes and his historic status as the first Hong Kong designer to join the official Haute Couture Calendar in Paris, Wun brings a dramatic and contemporary aesthetic to the brand.

The design features a horse in full stride, reimagined through Wun’s "couture lens." The artwork utilizes flowing, textured patterns that mimic both the movement of high-fashion fabrics and the liquid complexity of the whisky itself. Symbolizing strength, resilience, and forward momentum, the horse is a perfect avatar for the Johnnie Walker ethos of constant progression.

The Liquid: Rarity In Every Drop

While the exterior is a work of modern art, the liquid inside remains the pinnacle of the Johnnie Walker range. Blue Label is a blend of Scotland’s rarest whiskies, hand-selected from the four corners of the country.

• The 1-in-10,000 Rule: Only one in every 10,000 casks in Johnnie Walker’s unparalleled reserves - which include "ghost" whiskies from long-closed distilleries – is deemed to have the character required for Blue Label.
• Tasting Profile: The 2026 edition offers a velvety-smooth journey. It opens with notes of hazelnuts, honey, and orange, evolving into rich layers of ginger, sandalwood, and dark chocolate. The experience concludes with the signature Blue Label finish – a luxuriously long, soft, and smoky lingering.

The Collection: Expanding The Celebration

The collaboration with Robert Wun extends beyond the flagship Blue Label. The partnership also includes a limited edition design for John Walker & Sons XR 21.

• XR 21 Year Old: This expression is crafted from whiskies aged for at least 21 years, utilizing a rare three-stage blending process. Its flavor profile is characterized by indulgent layers of sweet honey, tempered spice, and tropical fruits, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a warmer, more fruit-forward dram.

Availability And Cultural Significance

The Year of the Horse officially begins on February 17, 2026, but the limited edition bottles were released in selected global markets starting in October 2025. These bottles have become highly sought-after collector's items, appealing to both whisky connoisseurs and fashion enthusiasts.

By working with cultural pioneers like Robert Wun, Johnnie Walker continues to evolve the Lunar New Year tradition. These editions serve as bridge-builders, honoring the ancient customs of the zodiac while celebrating the modern innovation that defines global luxury today.

Availability and Retail Pricing

The Year of the Horse Limited Edition is a global release, primarily available in key travel retail hubs and through premium spirits merchants. As of early 2026, the collection can be found in major markets including the UK, US, Hong Kong, Singapore, and India.

• Johnnie Walker Blue Label (Year of the Horse): Typically retails between $220 and $250 USD (£225 in the UK) for a 750ml/70cl bottle. Prices may fluctuate depending on the retailer, with some premium boutiques listing it up to $299.
• John Walker & Sons XR 21 (Year of the Horse): This edition is often priced between $150 and $180 USD. In regional markets like India, it is currently available in Duty-Free outlets for approximately INR 18,490.

The collection is also available through major online platforms such as The Whisky Exchange, Master of Malt, and specialized luxury spirits retailers. Given the limited nature of the Robert Wun design, stocks are expected to diminish rapidly following the Lunar New Year peak in February.

Summing Up

The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Year of the Horse (2026) is a testament to the power of "Keep Walking." Through the visionary artistry of Robert Wun and the centuries-old mastery of Scottish blending, this release offers more than just a toast to the New Year—it offers a symbol of optimism and the relentless drive to push boundaries. Whether as a gift for a loved one or a centerpiece for a private collection, it stands as a bold celebration of heritage and the future.