The Johnnie Walker Explorer’s Club Collection Gold Route takes inspiration from the journeys made by the Walker family and their agents – from Central America through the Andean mountains, passing the Inca pyramids and along the coast of the Pacific Ocean – where they witnessed magnificent scenery and diverse cultures whilst in pursuit of new businesses and rich experiences.
Crafted from the finest aged whiskies hand-picked for a luxurious smoothness and vibrant flavour, evoking a sense of exotic fruit flavours and beautiful rich golden colours.
From 1820, the Walker family travelled the world, navigating their way down the famous trade routes: the Spice Road of Europe and Asia; the Royal Route from Europe to Persia; and the Gold Route of the Americas and the Caribbean, in pursuit of adventures bringing both new business and rich experiences.
“We took inspiration from the richness of flavours, sights and experiences of Latin America to help us select the most precious liquids for this blend,” commented Master Blender Jim Beveridge. He added: “On the nose, there is an immediate wave of an exotic mix of bananas, mango and pitaya, complemented by a hint of vanilla sweetness. On first sip, the palate embarks on a journey that is as distinct and magnificent as the vistas of Latin America: tantalising flavours, a perfect blend of fruitiness with hints of pineapples, guava, passion fruit and raisins, all balanced perfectly by deep charred peaty notes, in keeping with the signature smoky Johnnie Walker flavour. Best enjoyed neat or on the rocks, the finish is smooth and luxurious, a fitting addition to the Johnnie Walker lineage.”
By the 1920s, Johnnie Walker had arrived in over 120 countries and was being enjoyed on the great railways, luxury ocean liners and early transatlantic flights.
Back in London, close to the shipping yards from which the Johnnie Walker agents travelled the world, Alexander Walker established the Travellers’ Room where his agents would convene to rest, exchange stories and samples from their travels. These colourful tales of exploration influenced the Johnnie Walker Master Blenders, who began to create different styles of whisky to reflect these exotic stories.
The blend is available exclusively for travellers in duty free stores, and like the other blends which make up the Collection, it pays tribute to the travelling heritage of the John Walker & Sons agents.
