Kampala hosted an elegant Lunar New Year celebration that blended culture, luxury design, and premium whisky in honor of the 2026 “Year of the Horse.” The event, organized by Johnnie Walker Uganda, brought together diplomats, business leaders, and cultural influencers to celebrate heritage and craftsmanship.
At the center of the evening was the unveiling of the 2026 Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year Limited Edition bottle, designed by Hong Kong–born, London-based haute couture designer Robert Wun. Inspired by the horse’s symbolism of strength, speed, and forward momentum, Wun reimagined the iconic Blue Label bottle with dynamic, contemporary designs reflecting motion and elegance.
Guests enjoyed a curated tasting session led by Melanie Kaita, Reserve Brand Ambassador, exploring the rare blend’s bright citrus, soft floral notes, and rich layers of chocolate, vanilla, and hazelnut, ending in a long, smooth smoky finish.
Speaking at the event, Abinash Kunjappan, CEO of Mediterrano, emphasized the celebration as a moment of renewal, unity, and cultural respect, highlighting the significance of Johnnie Walker recognizing Uganda’s Chinese community.
Christine Kyokunda, Brand Manager for Johnnie Walker East Africa, noted the collaboration as a “confluence of craftsmanship,” comparing the precision of couture design to the artistry of selecting rare whisky casks. She added that the Year of the Horse bottle embodies progress, strength, and the spirit of moving forward, aligning with Johnnie Walker’s Keep Walking philosophy.
The evening was enhanced by a live performance from the Jockum Band, playing beloved Chinese classics to create a nostalgic and celebratory atmosphere.
The 2026 Year of the Horse edition marks Johnnie Walker Blue Label’s 13th global Lunar New Year limited-edition release and is now available in Uganda through select premium distributors in Kampala.
