Johnnie Walker is set to revive whiskies from distilleries that have been closed for decades with the Australian launch of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare. Three so-called ‘ghost’ distilleries have had new life breathed into them through a series of special releases, where irreplaceable whiskies from these silent distilleries have been blended with other incredibly rare malt and grain Scotch whiskies.

Each special release will focus on a rare whisky from a distillery that has influenced the unique flavours of Johnnie Walker Blue Label. The first release draws on flavours from the well-known Highland distillery of Brora, which closed in 1983.

Diageo’s Australian National Whisky Ambassador, Simon McGoram says Brora is renowned for its exceptional quality and character. “In the 34 years since Brora went silent, its whisky has become some of the most highly-prized and sought-after Scotch on the planet,” he says. “Its addition to Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare brings a light peatiness, maritime influence and a subtle waxy sweetness to a rich, velvety and sophisticated blend.”

As well as Brora, silent distilleries Cambus and Pittyvaich have also been used as inspiration, bringing rich flavours and a subtle sweetness. The additional five whiskies are exceptional expressions of malt and grains from the existing distilleries of Royal Lochnagar, Clynelish, Glenkinchie, Glenlossie and Cameronbridge. The resulting Scotch is smooth with complex notes of hazelnut and dark chocolate, rounded off with a light smoky finish.

“Over the years I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the rarest whiskies ever to come out of Scotland,” says Johnnie Walker’s Master Blender, Jim Beveridge, “These whiskies and the distilleries they’re from, have a unique, inimitable character and they lend something very special to remarkable whiskies like Johnnie Walker Blue Label. I wanted to see what could happen if we explored particular aspects of that character in more depth.”

As of March 5^th, Australians will be able to buy a bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare, for $480 a bottle. With its custom-designed dark blue bottle showing the distilleries used in the blend on a map of Scotland, this is one ghost story that really is thrilling.