Johnnie Walker has unveiled the fourth release in its much talked about limited-edition Blue Label series: Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost & Rare Pittyvaich. Blended with irreplaceable “ghost whiskies” from Scotch whisky distilleries that have long since closed and incredibly rare Single Malts, the new offering draws on rare casks from the legendary Speyside ‘ghost’ distillery of Pittyvaich which closed its doors in 1993.
“It may only have thrived for a short period, but the whisky laid down by this distillery is something unmistakable,” said Jim Beveridge, Johnnie Walker Master Blender.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost & Rare Pittyvaich explores the distinct character of exceptional and very rare whiskies from one of Scotland’s most short-lived distilleries, the Speyside “ghost” distillery of Pittyvaich.
Like the elusive will-o’-the-wisp of Scottish folklore – an enigmatic brightness that appears at dusk just long enough for travellers to find their way home – Pittyvaich had a short life but left a distinct and growing legacy. The distillery, which opened in 1974 closed in 1993 after only 18 years of life, is now considered as a hidden gem whispered about the world over for its unique Speyside style.
The Johnnie Walker Ghost and Rare series of special editions is crafted using irreplaceable “ghost” whiskies and other incredibly rare expressions from Johnnie Walker reserves used to create Johnnie Walker Blue Label.
Johnnie Walker Master Blender Jim Beveridge and his team hand-selected two other “ghost” whiskies from the distilleries of Port Dundas and Carsebridge. He combined these with exceptionally rare Scotch from a quartet of Speyside distilleries including Mannochmore, Auchroisk, Cragganmore and Strathmill as well as the Highland whisky of Royal Lochnagar – crafting something exceptional.
“We have waited patiently for that perfect moment when we turn our thoughts to this fleetingly rare gem of the whisky world,” said Beveridge about the new whisky. “Its distinct autumnal character has always intrigued us and fired our imagination to create something really special that would pay tribute to the whisky makers of this Speyside distillery.”
When tasted, sweet, fruit notes of fresh apple gather with the autumnal flavors of Pittyvaich, beautifully balanced with the delicate subtle sweetness of honeycomb and soft wood from the “ghost” whiskies of Port Dundas and Carsebridge. Other very rare whiskies bring aromas of dark fruit and berries before revealing gentle butterscotch, stewing orchard fruits and a dash of cinnamon.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Pittyvaich follows the release of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Glenury Royal (2019), Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Port Ellen (2018) and Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Brora (2017). 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.
Bottled at 43.8% ABV, Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Pittyvaich will be available beginning November 1st for £275 per 70cl bottle. Each bottle in this special release is individually numbered.
For more information, head over to Johnnie Walker’s official website.
Last month, Diageo finally opened its landmark Edinburgh visitor experience, Johnnie Walker Princes Street. The eight-story complex is the centerpiece of the spirits giant’s £185m tourism investment program aimed at rebuilding Scotch whisky tourism for the future.