Kampala’s luxury whisky scene received a cultural highlight as Johnnie Walker Uganda hosted an elegant Lunar New Year celebration in the city. The exclusive evening marked the unveiling of the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year Limited Edition – Year of the Horse, a rare bottle created for the 2026 Lunar New Year.
The event took place in Kampala and brought together members of Uganda’s Chinese community, diplomats, business leaders, and cultural influencers. As a result, the gathering celebrated heritage, craftsmanship, and cross-cultural connection.
During the evening, guests experienced the official unveiling and private tasting of the new limited-edition bottle. The release forms part of a global collaboration between Johnnie Walker and renowned fashion designer Robert Wun.
Wun, who was born in Hong Kong and now works in London, has built a reputation for sculptural couture and emotionally powerful designs. Therefore, he became a natural creative partner for the Year of the Horse edition.
His design transforms the iconic Blue Label bottle into a striking visual canvas. In particular, the artwork captures the strength, elegance, and motion of a galloping horse. These elements reflect the Lunar New Year symbol of resilience, progress, and momentum.
Exclusive Tasting Experience
Guests also enjoyed a curated tasting session led by Melanie Kaita, Reserve Brand Ambassador for the brand. First, the tasting introduced bright citrus and delicate floral notes. Next, deeper flavours of chocolate, vanilla, and hazelnut unfolded. Finally, the whisky delivered a smooth and smoky finish that highlighted the rarity of the blend.
According to Kaita, the liquid comes from the rare “one in 10,000” casks selected for Johnnie Walker Blue Label, which explains its exceptional character and depth.
The evening also carried strong cultural meaning. Abinash Kunjappan, CEO of Mediterraneo and host of the celebration, highlighted the importance of the Lunar New Year for the community.
“The Lunar New Year represents renewal, unity, and the celebration of heritage while looking forward to the future,” he said. He also praised global brands like Johnnie Walker for recognizing and celebrating the Chinese community in Uganda.
Similarly, Christine Kyokunda, Brand Manager for Johnnie Walker East Africa, described the event as a meeting point of two worlds driven by craftsmanship.
“In the world of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, we celebrate rare casks that appear only once in 10,000 selections,” Kyokunda explained. “Likewise, Robert Wun’s world values the precision of a single stitch and the artistry of couture design.”
She added that the Year of the Horse edition symbolizes strength, speed, and progress. These values align closely with the brand’s long-standing Keep Walking philosophy.
Music and Cultural Tribute
Meanwhile, the evening atmosphere became even more vibrant through a live performance from Jockum Band. The band performed beloved Chinese classics, which created a nostalgic and celebratory mood for the guests.
Importantly, the Year of the Horse bottle represents the 13th global Lunar New Year limited edition released by Johnnie Walker Blue Label. Over the years, these annual releases have become cherished collectibles across Asian communities worldwide.
Today, the limited-edition bottle also plays a role in modern gifting traditions during the Lunar New Year season. The 2026 Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year Limited Edition now appears at select premium distributors in Kampala. As a result, collectors and whisky enthusiasts in Uganda can experience one of the brand’s most exclusive releases.
