In a bold stride into uncharted territory, Johnnie Walker, the world's premier Scotch whisky brand, has unveiled the Blue Label Elusive Umami Limited Edition, a unique whisky that pushes the boundaries of what Scotch can be.

A creation born from an extraordinary collaboration between the Johnnie Walker Master Blender, Emma Walker, and renowned Japanese Chef Kei Kobayashi, this masterpiece seeks to captivate whisky connoisseurs with its enigmatic umami essence and create a whisky that is both sweet and savoury with a complex and intriguing flavour profile.

Umami, a Japanese term for the 'fifth taste', holds mysterious qualities that Chef Kobayashi and Ms Walker endeavoured to decode.

“We aimed to push the boundaries of what Scotch could be and bring a truly innovative offering to the world of whisky and flavor,” explains Ms Walker, adding that  only one in 25,000 casks made the cut out of the producer’s reserves of more than 10 million maturing casks.

“Each expression of Scotch whisky was hand-picked to create an unami profile, just like ingredients for a recipe, allowing us to bring the unique character of this innovative whisky to life,” Ms Walker continued.

Chef Kobayashi, celebrated for his exceptional flavour pairings and culinary expertise, has complimented this unique whisky by crafting dishes that harmonise with both the sweet and savoury notes of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami. Known for his emphasis on design and a distinct Japanese influence, Chef Kei's culinary creations highlight the quality of the produce.

The whisky is made from a blend of rare and exceptional casks, and it boasts notes of blood oranges, red berries, sweet wood spice, a touch of smoked meat, and a hint of salt and pepper. The finish is long and sweet, with lingering notes of fruit.

João Matos, Global Marketing & Innovation Director of Johnnie Walker, emphasises, “Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami does just that – opening the door to an expression of taste that’s rarely seen in the world of whisky.” 

“The pioneering journey undertaken by Master Blender Emma Walker and renowned Chef Kei Kobayashi has resulted in a liquid that will inspire a new generation of whisky lovers.  

“Driving intrigue and excitement, we’re enhancing a traditional drinking moment to create an immersive experience that elevates all of the senses,” he adds.

Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami is a beautifully balanced Blended Scotch whisky of sweet and savoury flavours, with notes of blood oranges and red berries with sweet wood spice, a touch of smoked meat, a hint of salt and pepper with a long, sweet fruit finish. 

It was available exclusively at Johnnie Walker Princes Street in Edinburgh from 18th September 2023, and will be available to buy locally at the end of October.

Elevate your senses and stay updated on the release of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami in Malta by visiting demajowinesandspirits.com.