Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami: the quest for the impossible flavour
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami is a limited edition that redefines the boundaries of luxury Scotch whisky. Inspired by umami — the fifth taste, complex, deep and difficult to describe — this release is the result of a unique collaboration between two masters of sensory creation: Emma Walker, Master Blender at Johnnie Walker, and Michelin-starred chef Kei Kobayashi. Together, they embarked on a journey to capture the essence of this elusive taste, achieving a fusion of blending artistry and haute cuisine.
A liquid interpretation of umami
The concept of umami is associated with richness, intensity and balance. It evokes the taste sensation found in ingredients such as miso, mushrooms, cured ham or caviar. In this special edition, Emma Walker and Kei Kobayashi explored that idea through the lens of whisky, selecting one cask in every 25,000 to create an exceptionally layered and rich blend. Every drop of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami reveals the depth, mystery and harmony that define this universal taste.
A creation with a gastronomic soul
Rather than focusing solely on the traditional notes of whisky, the creators aimed to recreate the umami sensation on the palate. To achieve this, they combined malts with saline, smoky and subtly meaty profiles, carefully chosen from distilleries across Scotland. This meticulous blending results in a velvety texture and a flavour that unfolds slowly, leaving a lasting and enveloping impression.
The result is a multidimensional Scotch whisky that merges the sensory experience of the classic Blue Label with a new gustatory dimension. Each sip offers a fine balance of sweetness, saltiness and umami, with a complexity that surprises even the most discerning palates.
Tasting notes and sensory profile
On the nose, Elusive Umami reveals delicate aromas of caramelised miso, followed by hints of grilled pineapple and rich cacao. On the palate, the experience is enveloping and full-bodied, with blackberry tannins and a subtle mineral salinity that cleanses the palate. The finish is long, balanced and profoundly umami — a harmony of sweetness, bitterness and depth.
The perfect pairing: Oscietra caviar
Chef Kei Kobayashi suggests pairing this creation with Oscietra caviar, a choice that enhances the whisky’s savoury and mineral character. The caviar’s creamy texture, subtle saltiness and purity contrast beautifully with the whisky’s roasted notes, amplifying the umami sensation of both. When they meet on the palate, the flavours intertwine elegantly, creating a luxurious and unforgettable experience.
A guided sensory experience
To fully appreciate Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami, it is recommended to follow a simple ritual: take a spoonful of Oscietra caviar, let the pearls coat the palate, and then sip the whisky. The warmth of the whisky melts the flavours, releasing new aromatic layers that evolve over several seconds. This slow tasting invites you to rediscover the interplay between texture, aroma and taste.
Limited edition, timeless essence
Each bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami embodies the union of innovation and tradition. Its unique character stems from a deep respect for the art of blending and the courage to explore new frontiers of flavour. The bottle’s design reflects its refined modern identity, with metallic tones and details evoking the elegance of the sea and the earth — the natural sources of umami.
For seekers of unique experiences
This whisky is an invitation to explore the unknown. Perfect for collectors and Johnnie Walker Blue Label enthusiasts who crave something beyond the ordinary, Elusive Umami transforms whisky drinking into a sensory and cultural journey. A fleeting masterpiece, created to be enjoyed slowly, with respect and appreciation for every detail.
At Licorea, we believe that Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami redefines what a luxury Scotch whisky can be. Its balance between art, science and emotion makes it an experience that every true whisky lover should live at least once.
