Johnnie Walker Uganda recently celebrated the Lunar New Year in a delightful manner, hosting an elegant evening dedicated to Uganda’s Chinese community. This exclusive gathering brought together esteemed business leaders, diplomats, and cultural influencers to honour heritage, craftsmanship, and the connections between cultures.
The spotlight of the evening was the unveiling of the 2026 Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year Limited Edition – the “Year of the Horse” bottle – a luxury collaboration with Hong Kong-born, London-based designer Robert Wun. Known for his sculptural designs and ability to transform storytelling into art, Wun’s work explores themes of movement and bold self-expression, making him an ideal partner for this edition. Inspired by the horse’s symbolism of strength and elegance, Wun transformed the iconic Blue Label bottle into a dynamic work of art, representing the galloping horse’s swift and powerful nature.
The celebration in Kampala elegantly blended tradition, luxury design, and fine whisky, symbolising renewal, resilience, and progress—values closely tied to the Lunar New Year and Johnnie Walker’s philosophy of Keep Walking. A curated tasting session led by Melanie Kaita, the Reserve Brand Ambassador, guided guests through the intricate tastes of the limited-edition blend. The experience highlighted flavours from bright citrus and soft floral notes to rich chocolate, vanilla, and hazelnut, ending with a smooth, smoky finish—an embodiment of depth and rarity.
Abinash Kunjappan, CEO of Mediterrano and the evening’s host, referred to the celebration as a significant cultural moment, emphasising the themes of renewal and unity. He praised Johnnie Walker for thoughtfully honouring the Chinese community in Uganda.
Christine Kyokunda, Brand Manager for Johnnie Walker East Africa, remarked on the shared passion for craftsmanship between Johnnie Walker and Robert Wun. She stated that the “Year of the Horse” edition is not merely a bottle but a canvas capturing strength, speed, and progress—values echoed in Johnnie Walker’s messaging.
The night was further enhanced by a live performance from the Jockum Band, who performed cherished Chinese classics, creating a nostalgic atmosphere for attendees.