Get ready to embark on a sensory adventure as Johnnie Walker proudly unveils its latest masterpiece, the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami. This limited-edition release is an invitation to indulge your senses in a unique journey of flavor, crafted through the collaboration of renowned Chef Kei Kobayashi and Johnnie Walker’s Master Blender, Dr. Emma Walker, as they artfully capture the mysterious “fifth taste” known as umami.
Rajesh Joshi, General Manager of Diageo Philippines, expresses the brand’s commitment to elevating the drinking experience in the emerging luxury destination of the Philippines. He states, “We aim to encourage consumers to drink better, not more, by introducing Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami as part of our growing luxury Scotch Whisky portfolio.”
The Flavors of Innovation: Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami
Crafting the blend of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami involved channeling years of experience to combine the unparalleled taste of Johnnie Walker Blue Label with the essence of umami. This extraordinary Scotch whisky is a testament to Johnnie Walker’s heritage and unwavering commitment to innovation, offering a remarkable fusion of tradition and modernity designed to tantalize the palate with a symphony of flavors.
The beautifully balanced Blended Scotch whisky boasts sweet and savory notes, featuring blood oranges and red berries with sweet wood spice, a touch of smoked meat, and hints of salt and pepper, culminating in a long, sweet fruit finish.
Master Blender Emma Walker elaborates, “The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami is a testament to Johnnie Walker’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of whisky craftsmanship. Working with Chef Kei Kobayashi to create this limited-edition Umami blend embodies that philosophy perfectly, as we explore the culinary world’s most elusive taste.”
Unlocking the Umami Experience
Only one in 25,000 casks succeeds in bringing the elusive umami character to life. Each whisky was handpicked to create a unique umami profile, akin to selecting ingredients for a recipe. Chef Kei and Emma Walker collaborated to bring out the distinctive character of this innovative Scotch whisky.
“A Feast for the Senses” Launch in Manila
The exclusive launch of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami took place at the “Feast for the Senses,” a one-night-only, eight-hands tasting experience held at the recently reopened Makati Shangri-La hotel on October 9, 2023. The event, led by Angelo Comsti, Chef Edwin Lo, Don Baldosano, Nicco Santos, and Quenee Vilar, showcased the facets of umami through wind, earth, and water-inspired courses, expertly paired with the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami.
The culinary sensory adventure was elevated by live music from the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, creating an ambiance that mirrored the inspiration behind each dish. Specialty Johnnie Walker Blue Label cocktails, curated by drink collaborator David Ong, added an extra layer of sophistication to the experience.
Exquisite Whisky Mentoring Session
Guests at the exclusive event were treated to a whisky mentoring session with Dr. Emma Walker, delving into the intricacies of the Elusive Umami blend. Dr. Walker led a tasting of the Elusive Umami through its perfect serve – neat with a spoon of Oscietra Caviar – unlocking its full depth of flavor.
Experience the Elusive Umami – Now Available
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami is available in limited quantities in the Philippines. Secure yours exclusively at S&R, through Diageo Private Sales Channel via [email protected], and Singlemalt.ph. Don’t miss the chance to savor the sophistication and innovation encapsulated in every drop of this limited-edition release.