Spirit of spring

Spirit O F SPRING W hether you’re a whisky lover or newbie, the spirit is undoubtedly a firm fixture in Scottish culture – and one of our favourites, Johnnie Walker, is celebrating 200 years in 2020.

The leading Scotch whisky brand has been distilling its unique blend for two centuries and to mark the landmark occasion, is set to open a world-class whisky visitor experience later this year, bringing to life the people, the places, and the flavours that go into creating the world’s #1 Scotch whisky.

To join the celebrations, we’ve compiled our favourite Johnnie Walker highball cocktails to raise a toast for the anniversary, Johnnie & Lemon, Johnnie & Ginger, Johnnie & Elderflower, Johnnie & Green Tea and Johnnie & Peach. Each of these cocktails is both delicious and easy to make, with all the ingredients you need available in your local supermarket.

Whether you’re looking to ‘wow’ your next dinner guest or create the perfect tipple to enjoy in the house, we’ve popped the recipes for each of these tasty serves below, at home.

JOHNNIE & LEMON Bringing out the citrusy notes of Johnnie Walker Black Label, the Johnnie & Lemon highball is the perfect cocktail refresher. Topped with a mint garnish and lemon slice, this is an appetising and thirst-quenching cooler, perfect for a spring evening or weekend BBQ. INGREDIENTS: 50ml JW Black Label 150ml Lemonade Garnish: Lemon peel and mint leaf

JOHNNIE & GINGER The traditional ginger highball is a serve loved by cocktail lovers and neat whisky drinkers alike. Bringing the spicier notes of the Johnnie Walker blend, the star anise and ginger flavours accompany the liquid beautifully. INGREDIENTS: 50 ml JW Black Label 150ml Ginger Ale Garnish: Ginger slice and star anise

JOHNNIE & ELDERFLOWER For those who normally opt for lighter and softer cocktails, this whisky highball alternative ticks all the boxes. Mixing Johnnie Walker Black Label with a touch of elderflower cordial and soda balances out the palate for a smooth and tasty drink. INGREDIENTS: 50ml JW Black Label 20ml Elderflower cordial Top with soda Garnish: Elderflower and lavender sprig

JOHNNIE & GREEN TEA The unconventional pairing of whisky and green tea may raise a few eyebrows, but we can assure you that this combination is truly delicious. Mixing the smooth and smoky finish of Johnnie Walker Black Label with the delicate matcha flavour creates a super neutral and refreshing serve. INGREDIENTS: 50ml JW Black Label 50ml Green tea mixer Top with soda Garnish: Pineapple leaf and lemongrass

JOHNNIE & PEACH With vibrant flavours and sweet notes, the Johnnie & Peach is the perfect fruity cocktail. Johnnie Walker Black Label served with a peachy iced tea not only complements the sweeter notes of the whisky but also makes for a highly refreshing serve that’s guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser. INGREDIENTS: 50ml JW Black Label 150ml sparkling peach iced tea Garnish: Peach fan & thyme sprig