Latest news with #BlueLabel
News18
3 days ago
- Business
- News18
Why Johnnie Walker Whisky Is The Ultimate Luxury Drink; Know Its Price In India
Last Updated: Johnnie Walker is the world's favourite Scotch whisky, known for its range from Red Label to the luxurious Blue Label, blending tradition, quality, and rich heritage Any special celebration calls for a unique drink. Often, people choose champagne or fine wine for such occasions. However, sometimes we want to gift our loved ones something that lasts beyond just one evening; something to display proudly in their home bar and enjoy over many days. For that, there is no better choice than Johnnie Walker, and when it comes with a Blue Label, it becomes truly exceptional. Johnnie Walker: A Global Favourite Johnnie Walker is the world's most beloved Scotch whisky, with millions of bottles sold each year. Yet, the finest of these is undoubtedly Johnnie Walker Blue Label. Anyone would be thrilled to receive a bottle of this exquisite Scotch, personalised with their name in a gift bag. But what makes Johnnie Walker Blue Label so special? As Master Blender Dr Emma Walker, the first woman to hold this position in the brand's history, explains, 'Johnnie Walker Blue Label epitomises luxury, crafted using only the highest quality whisky-making skills." Johnnie Walker is a staple at restaurants, parties, and celebrations worldwide. It has marked its presence not only in the whisky market but also globally. The brand offers a range of blended whiskies catering to every taste, occasion, and budget, from the perfect cocktail mixer Red Label to the premium Blue Label, which blends old and rare whiskies. The spirit itself is as extraordinary as expected from a premium Johnnie Walker blend, a true gastronomic experience. The Red Label and Black Label remain two of the most popular blended whiskies globally. Founder And Early Years The story of Johnnie Walker began with its founder John Walker, born on July 25, 1805 at Todrigs Farm near Kilmarnock, Scotland. Following the death of his father in 1819, John sold Todrigs Farm and invested in a grocery store in Kilmarnock in 1820, aged just 14. By 1825, he had expanded his business and started working as a spirit merchant selling rum, brandy, gin, and whisky. Despite not drinking alcohol himself, John Walker sold blended whisky and single malts prepared to order. In 1850, he launched his own brand of blended malt, 'Walkers Kilmarnock Whisky'. However, a devastating flood in 1852 destroyed his stock, nearly forcing the family business to close and significantly impacting Scotland's blended whisky industry. In 1856, John's son Alexander Walker joined the business, forming John Walker & Sons. John Walker passed away in 1857, leaving the company to Alexander. Alexander Walker's Innovations Under Alexander Walker's management, the company became a dedicated whisky blender. In 1860, he introduced Johnnie Walker's iconic square-edged bottle for exporting 'Walkers Kilmarnock Whisky'. The square bottle was designed to allow more bottles to be packed in the same space and reduce breakage. In 1865, Alexander prepared the 'Old Highland Whisky' blend and registered its copyright in 1867. By this time, John Walker & Sons was selling 100,000 gallons of blended whisky annually. The distinctive slanted label of the Johnnie Walker brand was trademarked by Alexander Walker in 1877, becoming a hallmark of the brand. Following Alexander Walker's death in 1889, control of the company passed to his sons, Alexander II and George P. Walker. In 1893, John Walker & Sons purchased the Cardhu distillery to secure stocks for their blends. Cardhu remains a vital ingredient in Johnnie Walker whiskies today. The brand continued its expansion by acquiring more distilleries during the 20th century, including Colburn (1915), Clynelish, Dieluain & Talisker (1916), and Mortlach (1923). The 20th Century And Brand Development The 20th century was a period of growth for John Walker & Sons. In 1906, the Old Highland blended whisky range was expanded to three versions. From 1909, the Old Highland range was renamed Johnnie Walker, with products named Red Label, Black Label, and briefly White Label. The brand gained global recognition and became a pioneer of innovation in the Scotch whisky industry. In 1934, Johnnie Walker was awarded a Royal Warrant by King George V, recognising its quality and prestige. Today, the main Johnnie Walker range includes eight different blends and special releases, some of which are exclusive to particular markets. Johnnie Walker Red Label: When the Johnnie Walker brand was created in 1906, it was initially released as Walker Special Old Highland. In 1909, its name was changed to Red Label. Since 1945, Johnnie Walker Red Label has been the world's best-selling Scotch whisky, available in 180 countries. Interestingly, Red Label disappeared from the UK market between 1977 and 1983 before making a return. Johnnie Walker Black Label: Originally sold as 'Old Highland Whisky', the Black Label blend was created by Alexander Walker in 1865. When the Old Highland range expanded in 1906, it was renamed 'Extra Special Old Highland'. Upon the creation of the Johnnie Walker brand in 1909, it was renamed Black Label. Johnnie Walker Black Label: It is aged for 12 years and blended from 40 different whiskies sourced from all four corners of Scotland. Johnnie Walker Double Black: A newer addition to the brand's main range, Johnnie Walker Double Black is bottled in a semi-transparent black square bottle designed to keep the whisky's dark colour intact. Johnnie Walker Green Label: Initially launched in 1997 as Johnnie Walker Pure Malt 15-Year-Old, the name was changed to Green Label in 2004. This blend combines malt whiskies from Speyside, Highland, Lowland, and Island regions, matured for at least 15 years. Johnnie Walker Gold Label: The 18-Year-Old Blend was added to the core range in 1995. Walker's Centenary Blend was discontinued during World War II due to whisky shortages for blending. Johnnie Walker Gold Label was reformulated by blending 15 whiskies aged at least 18 years. Though popular, it was discontinued in 2011 and later returned as Platinum Label 18-Year-Old. Johnnie Walker Platinum Label: Introduced in 2011, initially for the Asian and Far Eastern markets, the Platinum Label joined the core range in 2012 as the brand's oldest age statement expression. Johnnie Walker Blue Label: First released in 1992 as 'Johnnie Walker Oldest', it was rebranded as Blue Label in 1994. Blue Label is one of the most expensive blended Scotch whiskies on the market and is considered the pinnacle of the brand. Limited Edition Releases: Johnnie Walker has also produced collectible and rare limited editions. In 2007, the Johnnie Walker King George V Decanter was released, commemorating the Royal Warrant granted in 1934. In 2012, a limited-edition decanter was launched for the UK market to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. Johnnie Walker Prices In India Approximate prices for 750ml bottles of Johnnie Walker in India are as follows: Red Label: Rs 1,700 to Rs 2,200 Black Label: Rs 3,310 to Rs 3,800 Green Label: Rs 4,100 to Rs 5,200 Double Black Label: Rs 3,200 to Rs 5,400 Gold Label Reserve: Rs 7,650 to Rs 8,250 Platinum Label (now known as Johnnie Walker 18 Year Old): Rs 7,865 to Rs 11,450 Blue Label: Rs 31,760 to Rs 35,000 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Business Insider
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Business Insider
A couple went to Africa on their 5th date. Now they're engaged, and the bride-to-be has a custom ring that nods to that trip.
California natives Natasha Gabbayan and Josh Banayan weren't completely sold on each other after their first four dates. Still, they had a connection. So Banayan did what anyone in his position would: he asked Gabbayan to travel with him to Cape Town for the wedding of a childhood friend. She said yes. "We fell in love in Africa," Banayan, a business owner, told Business Insider. "It was a crazy, five-day experience." They danced, got to know each other, and even went on a safari in Namibia. "It was funny because there were four other couples on that safari with us," he said. "Three were celebrating their honeymoon, one of them was proposing there, and then it was us. We were like, 'Yeah, we kind of just met.'" They've been together since that 2023 trip and are now celebrating their own engagement. Gabbayan's standout ring even has a special tie to that early trip overseas. Playing the long game Banayan, 36, made a plan earlier this year to ensure Gabbayan, 29, would never suspect he was about to propose. Four months in advance, he scheduled a weekly dinner reservation at the Sunset Tower Hotel in West Hollywood, where they had their first date. "We called it Tower Tuesdays," he said. "I'd call her an Uber, and I'd already be there. We'd get drinks and treat it like our first date." Gabbayan describes her partner as a "big planner," so she never considered that the recurring dates might be a ruse. When she arrived one Tuesday in June and was led to a suite, however, she knew something was up. "My heart started racing and I kind of blacked out a little from excitement," she said. A violinist performed Gabbayan's favorite songs as she walked in, and Banayan launched into "a five-minute speech." Though she doesn't remember it, Gabbayan knows she said yes when he asked her to marry him. They spent the rest of their night having a private dinner in their suite, enjoying the same dishes they had on their first date, like pigs in a blanket. The couple also wore matching pajamas, filmed family videos on Banayan's childhood camcorder, and signed a bottle of Blue Label scotch, which they hope will be the first drink they share with their future children. A one-of-a-kind ring to match a special love story Banayan told nearly no one that he was going to propose. He called his parents that morning and asked Gabbayan's father for permission to marry her two hours before their scheduled date. He also didn't seek help when designing his bride-to-be's engagement ring. "I have this philosophy that a man, if he's asking a woman to marry him, should know exactly what ring she wants," Banayan said. "He shouldn't have to take hints or have the girl tell him." "Marriage and relationships are all about listening, especially as a man," he added. "Just listen to the woman, and you should know." Gabbayan, who owns a vintage clothing brand, admitted to being "so nervous" about giving up creative control. "I want to say I had faith, but I didn't have that much faith," she said. But Banayan did his research. For months, he monitored Gabbayan's personal style and the jewelry accounts she follows on Instagram. His final design included two attached gold bands — representing the couple being a team — with their birthstones, a ruby and an aquamarine, hidden inside the ring's band. A vintage-inspired cushion-cut diamond sits on top. "When I'm looking at her rock, her birthstone on the bottom is facing me because she always comes first," Banayan said. "And when she's looking at her ring, my stone is facing her because I always come first to her." The ring was also crafted by Banayan's childhood friend, who now works in the diamond industry — the same friend who got married in Africa and brought the couple together. "It's really who I am and exactly what I like," Gabbayan said of her ring. "He really hit it right on the nail, without me even realizing that's something that I would've wanted. I couldn't have described it better if I wanted to." With a ring on her hand and a wedding to plan, Gabbayan said she's woken up every day since her proposal with a smile on her face. "I know that I'll look at this ring 50 years from now and remember that he spent four months designing and picking out every detail," she said. "I can buy myself a ton of jewelry, but an engagement ring is supposed to be sentimental and remind you of your person." All that's left for the couple to do now is get married.
The Star
22-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Blue Label to rebrand amid restructuring for potential Cell C listing
Edward West | Published 1 week ago Blue Label Telecoms said on Friday its directors will change the name of the company to Blu Label Unlimited Group, following a significant restructuring of its businesses that may eventually entail the listing of Cell C. The company announced in a notice on Friday that it is undergoing a significant restructuring that involves the separation of its telecoms and non-telecoms business units. The share price, which has risen from only R4.27 a year ago, had increased by 0.86% on Friday afternoon to R14.15. 'In light of this strategic shift, the board believes it is prudent for the company's name to reflect this new direction by omitting the reference to 'telecoms.' They also noted that the adjustment of the term 'Blue' to the abbreviated form 'Blu' aligns with the recent adoption of the trading name and logo 'Blu' across various marketing platforms. 'The board has therefore resolved to recommend the change of name to the shareholders of the company for their approval, deeming it a more fitting representation of the company's evolving identity and business focus.' The share code and JSE listing will remain unchanged. In May, Blue Label stated that it was exploring a potential restructure of the group to aid in the separation and potential future listing of Cell C on the Prime Segment of the Main Board of the JSE. 'The proposed restructure is expected to encompass various ancillary transactions aimed at optimising Cell C's capital structure and balance sheet in preparation for a potential separation and future listing on the JSE. Should Blue Label elect to implement the proposed restructure, it is envisaged that the various restructuring steps will be inter-conditional and contingent upon the potential listing of Cell C.' They said a separation and potential listing of Cell C from Blue Label's existing distribution businesses would allow investors to independently assess the value and strategic focus of each business. Earlier this month, Blue Label warned shareholders that the terms and conditions of the restructure were still being developed and remain subject to ongoing engagement and approvals. Visit:
Vogue Singapore
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Vogue Singapore
At Cool Cats, an electric night unfolds in celebration of Vogue Man's ‘Gold' issue
It was a special evening in the vibrant ambience of Cool Cats , Singapore's premier jazz lounge. As guests streamed in, dressed to the nines in sharp suiting and fluid slips, it marked the opening of a special night to remember. Soon, the velvet-draped room was filled with the low hum of anticipation and clinking glasses—the mood set for a night steeped in style. A distinctive blend of classic elegance and contemporary edge, there's no place more fitting than Cool Cats to host the third annual celebration of Vogue Man , with the latest issue fronted by iconic Singaporean model and photographer Chuando Tan . Inspired by the issue's theme 'Gold,' the night paid tribute to golden standards—both past and present. The third annual celebration of Vogue Man took place at Cool Cats, Singapore's premier jazz lounge. Isaku Themed 'Sartorial Suits & Sounds: The '30s Edge,' the dress code of the night invited attendees to reimagine vintage silhouettes through a modern lens. Think midnight double-breasted jackets, louche neckerchiefs, and high-shine accents—each look a conversation between nostalgia and androgynous glamour. Joining the tailored elegance of the 1930s with a rebellious spirit, the soirée captured the bold essence of a distant era. Guests pose against the stunning photo wall, designed by Chun-Kie Filmhouse. Rueven Guests pose against the stunning photo wall, designed by Chun-Kie Filmhouse. Rueven Guests pose against the stunning photo wall, designed by Chun-Kie Filmhouse. Rueven Upon entering the venue, guests were greeted by a premium bar experience curated by Johnnie Walker, with its two labels—JW Gold Label and JW Blue Label —each taking over a corner of Cool Cats' intimate space. The velvety honeyed notes of the JW Gold Label, lightly kissed by vanilla spice, were juxtaposed against the sumptuous and smooth JW Blue Label, whose flavours boast a long, smoky finish. Throughout the night, in-house bartenders skilfully whipped up a variety of classic cocktails with a twist, including a unique Gold Apple Highball as well as a smoky while refreshing Blue Fashioned. Guests were greeted by a premium bar experience curated by Johnnie Walker. Isaku Guests were greeted by a premium bar experience curated by Johnnie Walker. Guests were greeted by a premium bar experience curated by Johnnie Walker. Isaku Guests were greeted by a premium bar experience curated by Johnnie Walker. Isaku Kicking the party off, editor-in-chief Desmond Lim took to the stage to share a few words about the latest issue of Vogue Man, ushering in a new era of modern masculinity. 'In this issue themed 'Gold,' we set out to challenge the tired narrative of decline that often accompanies ageing. Instead, we celebrate what is earned, embodied and endured over time,' shared Lim. Editor-in-chief Desmond Lim kicked off the night with an opening speech. Isaku Presenter and actor Edward Russell hosted the event. Rueven While guests showed off their impeccable suiting against the stunning gilded photo wall designed by Chun-Kie Filmhouse, others flocked to the sleek fragrance booth by Viktor&Rolf, engaging in a multi-sensory experience. Featuring the fashion house's new eau de parfum, Spicebomb Dark Leather, guests were invited to try out the fragrance firsthand while striking a pose by the stylish installation. Guests tried out Viktor&Rolf's Spicebomb Dark Leather while striking a pose by the stylish installation. Isaku Guests tried out Viktor&Rolf's Spicebomb Dark Leather while striking a pose by the stylish installation. Isaku Guests tried out Viktor&Rolf's Spicebomb Dark Leather while striking a pose by the stylish installation. Isaku From boundary-pushing creatives to C-suite leaders and entrepreneurs , the festivities brought together a diverse group of fashion-forward male tastemakers, spanning generations and industries. As guests mingled into the night, a spread of delectable canapés by Madame Fan circulated around the room, from suckling pig with caviar to a crispy cheese wagyu cube. The rich and innovative flavours of the award-winning modern Cantonese restaurant did not disappoint in the slightest, especially when paired with the night's divine libations. Guests mingle throughout the night. Isaku A spread of delectable canapés by Madame Fan circulated around the room. Guests mingle throughout the night. The celebratory bash kicked into high gear as talented musicians took to the stage. A lively jazz performance by the Alina Ramirez Trio set the mood, introducing Afro-Latin rhythms and Mexican folkloric music with a contemporary twist. Chillwave artist-producer Houg slowed things down with a sensual performance, weaving in his distinct analog sounds and introspective lyrics. As the night went on, Singaporean hip-hop artist and rapper Yaung pumped the energy to a crescendo, performing hits including Madman , Humble and Not Like Us . As the night heated up, DJ Prav kept the dynamic ambiance going with his live set—mixing hip-hop, R&B, trap and bass in his versatile tracks. Talented performers took to the stage throughout the night. Isaku Talented performers took to the stage throughout the night. Isaku Talented performers took to the stage throughout the night. Isaku Talented performers took to the stage throughout the night. Isaku Talented performers took to the stage throughout the night. Isaku Of course, no Vogue Singapore event would be complete without a best-dressed segment. At the end of the night, fashion features editor Maya Menon handpicked two best-dressed attendees, who took home prizes including a Johnnie Walker Blue Ice Chalet and a Viktor&Rolf Spicebomb signature trio set. Best-dressed attendees handpicked by fashion features editor Maya Menon. Rueven As the eventful night came to a close, guests left the venue in high spirits, each with a goodie bag containing the double 'Gold' issue of June 2025 and Vogue Man, alongside luscious sweet treats from Swiss chocolatier Läderach. Tucked within were also curated essentials to carry the glamour home—an ode to the night's opulence and enduring style. With jazz notes lingering in their ears and gold still glinting in the mind's eye, attendees stepped out into the city night with a little extra shine. Best-dressed attendees handpicked by fashion features editor Maya Menon. Rueven Get your copy of the Vogue Singapore June 'Gold' issue accompanied by the Vogue Man Issue here .
IOL News
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
A Day of Prestige: Johnnie Walker Blue Polo Unites Icons of Fashion, Whisky & Polo in Johannesburg
Set against the glittering skyline of Africa's richest square mile, the event brought together polo enthusiasts, whisky lovers, celebrities, and cultural tastemakers for an unforgettable afternoon that blended sport, style, and storytelling, all under the banner of Johnnie Walker Blue Label. Image: Supplied Set against the glittering skyline of Africa's richest square mile, the event brought together polo enthusiasts, whisky lovers, celebrities, and cultural tastemakers for an unforgettable afternoon that blended sport, style, and storytelling, all under the banner of Johnnie Walker Blue Label. Image: Supplied Upon arrival, guests were welcomed with signature Johnnie Walker Blue Label cocktails. Image: Supplied The highly anticipated return of the Johnnie Walker Blue Polo on Sunday, June 8th, transformed the heart of Sandton into a dazzling celebration of rare craftsmanship, bold fashion, and timeless sophistication. Set against the glittering skyline of Africa's richest square mile, the event brought together polo enthusiasts, whisky lovers, celebrities, and cultural tastemakers for an unforgettable afternoon that blended sport, style, and storytelling, all under the banner of Johnnie Walker Blue Label. Upon arrival, guests were welcomed with signature Johnnie Walker Blue Label cocktails, setting an elevated tone for what would become an immersive journey into the world of Blue Label, one defined by excellence, elegance, and experiential richness. 'On behalf of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, we are honoured to welcome our guests to an afternoon where legacy meets contemporary luxury, this event is a celebration of excellence, a convergence of whisky, fashion, and sport, curated to honour the rare craft of Blue Label and the cultural icons who continue to inspire and shape the future,' said Mpimy Mashimbye, Senior Brand Manager Reserve Scotch (South, West & Central Africa). The event was graced by some of South Africa's most influential figures, a reflection of the brand's deep connection to those driving local culture forward. Among the high-profile guests was fashion designer Mmuso Maxwell, who collaborated with Johnnie Walker Blue Label to dress the brand's official Blue influencers, offering a stunning display of contemporary African design. Also showcasing their creative flair was BamCollective, known for their bold, avant-garde fashion perspective. Bringing further star power to the afternoon were Sarah Langa, Natasha Joubert, Siya Bunny, and former Bafana Bafana footballer Teko Modise, the official Johnnie Walker Blue influencers who embodied the brand's prestige and style with effortless charisma. The event featured a curated line-up of immersive experiences that allowed guests to explore the depth of Johnnie Walker Blue Label through every sense: The event was graced by some of South Africa's most influential figures, a reflection of the brand's deep connection to those driving local culture forward. Image: Supplied A polo-inspired fashion showcase staged in elegant stables, where equestrian heritage met high fashion. staged in elegant stables, where equestrian heritage met high fashion. The Blue Label Discovery Lounge , where guests were guided through a personalised whisky tasting journey featuring ambient visuals, immersive soundscapes, and rare storytelling. , where guests were guided through a personalised whisky tasting journey featuring ambient visuals, immersive soundscapes, and rare storytelling. A bespoke Personalisation Station , offering engraved miniature Blue Label bottles — a lasting memento of an exceptional day. , offering engraved miniature Blue Label bottles — a lasting memento of an exceptional day. Styled content zones throughout the venue, from horse-led photo moments to high-design backdrops, provided picture-perfect opportunities to capture the elegance of the day. throughout the venue, from horse-led photo moments to high-design backdrops, provided picture-perfect opportunities to capture the elegance of the day. More than just a polo match, the Johnnie Walker Blue Polo was a celebration of legacy, culture, and aspiration. Every element from fashion and sport to whisky and design came together to reflect the Blue Label ethos Set against the glittering skyline of Africa's richest square mile, the event brought together polo enthusiasts, whisky lovers, celebrities, and cultural tastemakers for an unforgettable afternoon that blended sport, style, and storytelling, all under the banner of Johnnie Walker Blue Label. Image: Supplied
