Johnnie Walker, the world's premier Scotch Whisky brand, has once again proven its commitment to innovation by unveiling a groundbreaking limited-edition whisky known as Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami. This pioneering expression, inspired by the elusive fifth taste, is the result of a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Master Blender Emma Walker and renowned Chef Kei Kobayashi.
Decoding Umami: A Culinary Adventure
In a quest to decode one of the world's most mysterious flavors, Emma Walker and Chef Kei Kobayashi embarked on a remarkable journey of flavor discovery. Their goal was to create a blend that captures the enigmatic taste of umami, often described as the "fifth taste," which possesses unique and hard-to-define qualities.
The outcome of this remarkable collaboration is a finely balanced Scotch whisky that combines sweet and savory elements. It features prominent notes of blood oranges and red berries, accompanied by hints of sweet wood spice, a touch of smoked meat, and a subtle interplay of salt and pepper. This complex flavor profile culminates in a lingering, sweet fruit finish.
The Art of Selection: A Rarity Among Casks
The selection process for Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami is a testament to its exclusivity. Only one cask out of every 25,000 in the vast reserves of more than 10 million maturing casks met the stringent criteria required to embody the umami profile. Each cask was hand-picked, akin to selecting ingredients for a culinary masterpiece, to craft this innovative whisky.
Master Blender Emma Walker shares her insights, saying, "For Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami, only one in 25,000 casks in our unparalleled reserves of more than 10 million maturing casks made the cut in our painstaking search for that elusive flavor profile. Each expression of whisky was hand-picked to create an umami profile, just like ingredients for a recipe, allowing us to bring the unique character of this innovative whisky to life."
Umami Unleashed: A Gastronomic Experience
Chef Kei Kobayashi, whose renowned restaurant Kei in Paris holds three Michelin stars, offers his perspective on this unique endeavor, stating, "Umami possesses a mysterious quality that ignites our senses, revealing sumptuous taste, complexity, and depth. Encapsulating that alluring flavor through Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami allows you to immerse your palate in an exquisite Scotch Whisky of subtle richness."
A Whisky for the Senses
The tasting experience of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami is a sensory adventure. It begins with the senses being gently awakened by the presence of apple and white peach. The journey continues with a sweet, smooth, and prolonged encounter featuring mandarins, blood oranges, and red berries. The finish is a harmonious blend of sweet wood spice, a hint of smoked meat, warming salt, and pepper, followed by a long-lasting, sweet fruit finish.
Exclusive Preview in Edinburgh
Whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs will have the opportunity to be among the first to savor Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami, available exclusively at Johnnie Walker Princes Street in Edinburgh from September 18, 2023. The worldwide pre-sales launch is scheduled for October 2, 2023, and the whisky will be available for purchase globally from October 16, 2023.
Julie Bramham, Global Brand Director of Johnnie Walker, highlights the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of whisky, saying, "In partnering with Chef Kei to create this unique liquid, we're driving intrigue and excitement to recruit a new generation of whisky lovers – enhancing a traditional drinking moment to create an immersive experience that elevates all of the senses."
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the world of whisky, inviting enthusiasts to embark on a flavor journey like no other.
Learn more on the Johnnie Walker website.
About Chef Kei Kobayashi
Chef Kei Kobayashi is a highly acclaimed culinary talent known for his exceptional skills in the world of French cuisine. Born in Nagano, Japan, Chef Kobayashi embarked on his culinary journey at a young age, training in the art of French cooking in both Japan and France. His remarkable journey and culinary expertise have earned him international recognition and accolades.
One of Chef Kobayashi's most significant achievements came in 2020 when he became the first Japanese chef to be awarded three Michelin stars for his restaurant, "Kei," located in the heart of Paris, France. This prestigious honor solidified his position as a leading figure in the global culinary scene and showcased his mastery of French gastronomy.
Chef Kobayashi's cuisine is characterized by a harmonious blend of French culinary traditions and Japanese precision and finesse. He is celebrated for his ability to create exquisite dishes that showcase the finest seasonal ingredients, with a particular emphasis on seafood. His artful presentation and attention to detail have captivated diners and critics alike.
In addition to his Michelin accolades, Chef Kobayashi has received numerous other awards and recognitions throughout his career, reaffirming his status as a culinary virtuoso. His commitment to perfection and his dedication to the craft of cooking continue to inspire both aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts worldwide.
Beyond his culinary talents, Chef Kei Kobayashi's story serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and cross-cultural culinary exploration. His unique culinary perspective and unwavering pursuit of excellence have left an indelible mark on the world of fine dining, making him a celebrated and respected figure in the culinary world.
About Johnnie Walker
Johnnie Walker is one of the most iconic and recognizable names in the world of Scotch whisky. Founded in 1820 by John Walker in Kilmarnock, Scotland, the brand has a rich history and has played a pivotal role in the global whisky industry. Johnnie Walker is renowned for its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and a range of distinctive whisky expressions that cater to various tastes and preferences.
One of the hallmarks of Johnnie Walker is its extensive and diverse portfolio of whiskies, each known for its unique character and flavor profile. The brand offers a color-coded range of expressions, from the vibrant and accessible Johnnie Walker Red Label to the sophisticated and refined Johnnie Walker Blue Label. These color-coded labels serve as a guide to the whisky's flavor intensity and aging, making it easier for consumers to choose the style that suits them best.
The iconic striding man logo, featured on every bottle of Johnnie Walker, has become a symbol of progress, forward-thinking, and the pursuit of excellence. It embodies the brand's commitment to continually improving and innovating in the world of Scotch whisky. This dedication to progress is also reflected in the brand's history, as Johnnie Walker was one of the first whisky companies to offer blended Scotch whisky, a pioneering move that helped shape the modern whisky industry.
Johnnie Walker is celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing of ingredients. The brand places a strong emphasis on ethical practices and environmental responsibility, working to reduce its carbon footprint and support local communities in Scotland and around the world.
The brand's commitment to innovation is further evident in its limited-edition releases and special blends. Johnnie Walker regularly introduces new expressions that push the boundaries of flavor and craftsmanship, captivating whisky enthusiasts and collectors with unique and memorable tasting experiences.
In summary, Johnnie Walker is a revered and iconic name in the world of Scotch whisky, known for its rich history, diverse portfolio of expressions, commitment to quality and sustainability, and its enduring symbol of the striding man. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail, Johnnie Walker continues to be a symbol of excellence in the world of whisky.
