Johnnie Walker Black Ruby
Johnnie Walker has added a new permanent blended Scotch whisky to its Australian portfolio: the Johnnie Walker Black Ruby. The sweetest Black Label expression to date, Black Ruby combines whiskies that have been matured in ex-wine, ex-PX Oloroso, and ex-bourbon casks, along with smooth caramel malts from Diageo’s Roseisle distillery.
“Johnnie Walker Black Ruby is a true testament to the art of whisky craftsmanship. Embracing the boldness of the night and the richness of ripe fruits, Black Ruby stands as the sweetest pour in Johnnie Walker’s illustrious history,” said Tim Philips-Johansson, Global Brand Ambassador.
“With each sip, revel in the harmonious fusion of baked dark fruit nuance, meticulously curated to deliver an unparalleled sensory experience. It truly is the ultimate expression for the edge of the night.”
In a release to media, Diageo described Black Ruby as a contemporary new expression that amplifies the fruitiest notes of Johnnie Walker Black Label, in a celebration of honeyed richness, magnetic allure, and indulgent sweet, smooth notes.
Johnnie Walker Black Ruby has been bottled at 40% abv and is now available in all major Australian liquor retailers at $80 per bottle.
Read more about Black Ruby’s upcoming public launch event and cocktail ideas here.
Mumm Central Otago Pinot Noir 2021
Pernod Ricard’s Sparkling wine brand Mumm has announced its first ever still wine release: the Mumm Central Otago Pinot Noir 2021. Forming part of its Mumm Terroirs collection, the latest release is made from hand-harvested grapes sourced from the Lowburn sub-region, and was bottled after 16 months spent aging in French oak.
Chief Winemaker at Mumm New Zealand Jamie Marfell said: “Creating a fine wine rather than a sparkling wine, speaks to the pioneering and innovative nature of this collection which is dedicated to showcasing Pinot Noir at its pinnacle of quality in the bottle.”
Mumm describes the wine as displayiny aromas of black and red cherry, blackberry and blueberry highlights, with a touch of sweet vanilla spice. The palate is elegantly structured, full of dark plum and black cherry, overlayed with sweet dark chocolate, subtle silky fruit tannins and sweet harmonious oak char to finish.
Mumm’s new Central Otago Pinot Noir is available now in select Australian venues and online at an RRP of $80.
Rémy Martin’s 300th Anniversary coupe
This week, Rémy Martin revealed its 300th Anniversary Coupe to Australia. With only 6,724 bottles being released globally, only extremely limited quantities of the Cognac will be made available to Australian consumers.
The limited edition anniversary release was crafted by Cellar Master Baptiste Loiseau using barrels from Rémy Martin’s Réserve Perpétuelle, a collection of eaux-de-vie exclusively from the Grande Champagne.
Baptiste Loiseau said: “the perpetual reserve is as much a process as a legacy. When a new blend is created, part of it is set aside for future cellar masters. In turn, they will use it for the next Anniversary Coupe. To create the 300th Anniversary Coupe, I have come to enrich this blend with the treasures of our cellars and Grande Champagne terroir, which will be the legacy I leave to the next generation. By reserving some eaux-de-vie from this precious Coupe 300th Anniversary, the story will continue for future generations.”
The Rémy Martin 300th Anniversary Coupe will be made available to purchase in Australia from 16 August.
Click here to read Brand Ambassador Josh Varna’s explanation of the exclusive release.
Starward Botrytis Cask
Starward has introduced a new limited-edition whisky release: the Starward Botrytis Cask single malt whisky. Exclusive to the distillery, the new release has spent seven years ageing in casks that once held Botrytis Semillon dessert wine.
“We always knew that the flavours of a botrytis cask would work perfectly with our signature spirit, and we were ecstatic when we finally got our hands on some beautiful barrels to play with,” said Head Blender Jarrad Huckshold.
“It’s been a delight to see this liquid develop the distinct dessert-like characteristics from the botrytis casks. Orange blossom, apricot and marmalade flavours are delicious and not typical of our Starward style. I’m looking forward to seeing how whisky lovers embrace this new release.”
The new release has been bottled at 48% abv and will cost $169 per 700ml bottle. The product has been made available exclusively via a ballot on Starward’s website. Successful recipients will be drawn from the entry pool on 21 August.
Beenleigh Rum & Pineapple Crush RTD
Australia’s oldest registered distillery Beenleigh Rum has announced a new RTD product: the Beenleigh Rum & Pineapple Crush RTD. The new product mixes Beenleigh’s white rum with real pineapple juice, resulting in a bold flavour profile.
Brand Manager Will Sullivan said: “we’ve crafted a drink that promises a premium, full-flavoured experience that’s perfect for any occasion… In response to the booming RTD market, the Rum & Pineapple Crush delivers an unparalleled taste that’s perfect for hot days and balmy nights, proving that convenience doesn’t have to compromise quality.”
Beenleigh Rum & Pineapple Crush has been canned at an abv of 4.5% and is available now nationwide at $24 per 4-pack.
