Johnny Walker's Black Ruby: A Sweet & Vivid Start to Your Evenings
Kirin Brewery Co., led by President Hideki Horiguchi, has announced an exciting country-wide campaign centered around the return of Johnny Walker’s Black Ruby, owned by Diageo (UK), the world’s number one Scotch whisky brand. Since its launch in April 2025, Black Ruby has been well received, achieving sales figures that match its flagship product, the Johnny Walker Black Label, within the same month. According to Kirin Brewery's latest statistics, overall sales of the Johnny Walker brand rose by 147% year-on-year, indicating renewed vigor in the whisky market.
A Rising Star in Japanese Whisky
The current landscape of Japanese whisky showcases a bifurcation in consumer preferences, with Scotch whisky driving growth. Johnny Walker has received global acclaim, and with the introduction of premium products like Black Ruby, it caters to a wider range of tastes and preferences. It boasts a complex yet bold flavor profile as part of the Black Label series, which includes the renowned Black Label and the notably smoky Double Black.
Master Blender Emma Walker designed Black Ruby to resonate with even those who may be new to Scotch whiskies, encapsulating the essence of vibrant, exhilarating nights.
Unveiling a Campaign of Experiences
From August 25, 2025, Johnny Walker will begin the widespread release of Black Ruby, accompanied by a range of advertisements, including a new TV commercial (TVCM), events, and campaigns to ensure more customers can enjoy this unique expression. The TVC titled “Black Ruby Debut Part” will commence airing nationally from September 8, 2025.
Expect bold visuals inspired by rubies and fashion runways, celebrating the arrival of Black Ruby alongside images of juicy blackberries that represent the whisky's sweetness and fruitiness.
In conjunction with the launch, a unique opportunity awaits with a sweepstakes campaign enabling participants to win a luxurious highball kit featuring a variety of Johnny Walker products when they spend over 3,500 yen on eligible items from October 7, 2025, to January 30, 2026.
Collaborating with Culture
The brand is set to sprinkle a degree of excitement over various cultural events this autumn, particularly through collaborations with up-and-coming artists and trendsetting bars. One such initiative includes the
THE WALKERS IN TOWN SESSIONS music event, featuring artists like G.RINA and Natsu Summer on September 3, alongside a second installment on October 11 in Tokyo.
Furthermore, collaboration with the prominent music producer STUTS will introduce a curated playlist inspired by Black Ruby and partnerships with creative units involved in graphic and event production.
Dive into Black Ruby
Black Ruby promises a decadent experience with its multifaceted boldness balanced by smoothness and an exquisite sweetness, perfect for savoring during the twilight hours. Its packaging, radiating a ruby-like hue, is designed to reflect modern luxury. It is available nationwide, presented in a 700ml bottle with an alcohol content of 40%.
The legacy of Johnny Walker, ignited by its founder over two centuries ago, remains steadfast in delivering a premium whisky experience through exceptional blending techniques. The newly launched Black Ruby is set to carve its niche while enhancing the overall experience of whisky enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
For more details and updates on Johnny Walker Black Ruby, visit the official website here and follow their Instagram here.
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