Johnnie Walker taps Islay single malts from Port Ellen in its newest limited-edition Ghost release.
A lot goes into each bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, and just so we appreciate the parts of its sum, the blended whisky brand has released the latest addition to its Ghost series. Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Port Ellen is the second in a series of special editions crafted using irreplaceable ‘ghost’ whiskies and other incredibly rare whiskies from the Johnnie Walker Blue Label reserves used to create Johnnie Walker Blue Label.At the heart of this limited-edition lies the highly sought-after Islay single malt, Port Ellen – a ‘ghost’ distillery that shut its doors in 1983.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Port Ellen follows the exciting release of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Brora last year. Each edition in the series offers a fleeting opportunity to savour the depth of character of whiskies from distilleries whose spirit lives on in their dwindling stocks.
“These whiskies deliver a fascinating glimpse into another world, exploring the unique, the inimitable character of whiskies from a small number of iconic closed distilleries that lend something very special to every drop of Johnnie Walker Blue Label,” says Johnnie Walker master blender Jim Beveridge. “It’s really interesting to be able to put a spotlight on the character of these whiskies.”
The newest release recaptures the memory of the precious cargo of smoky island single malts that were once carried on ships sailing from this famous distillery by balancing its unique character with other incredibly rare whiskies. ‘Ghost’ whiskies from Caledonian and Carsebridge add layers of creamy, vanilla sweetness whilst rare malts from Mortlach, Dailuaine, Cragganmore, Blair Athol and Oban deliver rolling waves of waxy citrus, rich malt and tropical fruit flavours – all perfectly balanced by the distinctive maritime smokiness of Port Ellen that lingers in the long and warming finish, according to Beveridge.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Port Ellen is bottled at an ABV of 43.8% and will be available globally in October with an RRP of 275 GBP for a 70cl bottle. Each bottle in this special release is individually numbered.
For more Wines & Spirits inspiration click here.