Overnight, Johnnie Walker celebrated the arrival of Johnnie Walker Black Ruby Blackberry & Soda, with a launch party in Sydney. The event brought together creators, media, artists and cultural tastemakers for a night that reflected the flavour and energy of this new innovation.
Held at Chin Chin, the evening marked the official debut of Johnnie Walker Black Ruby Blackberry & Soda, a sparkling ready-to-drink whisky spritz. The new serve is a twist on the classic Tom Collins, made with Johnnie Walker whisky balanced with sweet and tart flavours of blackberry and elderflower, topped with soda for a crisp finish.
It is designed to be the first drink of the night, the catalyst that sets the tone for a social, elevated occasion. Crafted in Australia and made for modern tastes, Johnnie Walker Black Ruby Blackberry & Soda is the newest evolution of Johnnie Walker’s flavour portfolio and a bold invitation into the world of whisky for a new generation of drinkers.
“Johnnie Walker Black Ruby Blackberry & Soda is more than just a product. It represents a new direction for Johnnie Walker in Australia,” said Sarah Shimmons, marketing and innovation director at Diageo Australia.
“We are reimagining Scotch to feel more contemporary and inclusive, while still grounded in the quality people expect from Johnnie Walker. This innovation speaks to the spirit of progress that drives everything we do.”
Guests were treated to a live performance by pop artist Charley, with a DJ set by Mowgli May and Hey Boone, and an immersive Black Ruby bar experience that brought the drink’s attitude to life.
Attendees included the likes of Riley Hemson, Amy Pejkovic, Austen Bugeja, Claudia Bonifazio, Khanh Ong, Lachy McLean, and Paul Versace creating social buzz and capturing the spirit of a night made for music, connection and flavour.
The event also served as the announcement moment for the Walk to Austin Award presented by Johnnie Walker Black Ruby. As the Official Whisky Partner of SXSW Sydney 2025, and presenting partner of the SXSW Sydney 2025 Music Festival, Johnnie Walker Black Ruby will give one emerging Australian artist the opportunity of a lifetime, a guaranteed performance slot at SXSW in Austin in 2026.
Charley, who performed at the launch, reflected on the significance of the program.
“Being part of this moment with Johnnie Walker is really special,” she said.
“The Walk to Austin Award is such an incredible opportunity for emerging artists. Having the chance to take your music from here to a global stage like SXSW in Austin is game-changing, and it’s amazing to see a brand creating space for that kind of breakthrough.”
Credits:
Client: Diageo Australia, Johnnie Walker
PR & Event Production: Thrive PR & Communications
Brand Ambassador: Charley
Brand Ambassador: Kelsey Blacksmith
Media Agency: Hearts & Science
Venue: Chin Chin Sydney
