Johnnie Walker Blue Label - Angel Chen

In what has become something of an annual tradition, Johnnie Walker Blue Label has teamed up with Shanghai-based designer Angel Chen to create a limited edition Lunar New Year bottle for the Year of the Rabbit.

The Johnnie Walker Blue Year of the Rabbit bottle design features a dynamic and modern interpretation of the 2023 zodiac animal. A symbol of mercy, elegance and beauty, the rabbit is synonymous with longevity in traditional Asian culture. Echoing Johnnie Walker's motto, Keep Walking, prancing rabbits are depicted leaping among mountain peaks. Chen, who studied fashion at the prestigious Central Saint Martin College of Art (London), says: "My illustrations exude a defiant energy that brings to life the vibrant spirit of the rabbit as it leaps through the design, symbolising the need to keep moving forward and spread goodness throughout the coming year.

On the nose, the Scotch is smooth and round, with a taste of dry smoke mingling with the sweetness of sultanas. The first sip reveals a velvety mouthfeel, where undulating waves of rich spice give way to a deep wave of vanilla and honey sweetness, leading to caramel and hazelnut through dark chocolate. The finish is exceptionally long and luxurious, with smoke, pepper and a hint of spice.