Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost & Rare Pittyvaich Showcases A Forgotten Sip From The Past

Marking the fourth release in Johnnie Walker’s bid to resurrect the ghost of whiskies past, Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost & Rare Pittyvaich spotlights the unique character of rare whiskies from Pittyvaich, one of Scotland’s most short-lived distilleries.

Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost & Rare Pittyvaich Showcases A Forgotten Sip From The Past

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Although the ‘ghost’ distillery of Pittyvaich shut its doors in 1993, after just 18 years of operation, it left behind a strong legacy and is considered a pillar of exceptional scotch-making among whisky aficionados around the world due to its distinctive Speyside style. Following on from the Glenury Royal (2019), Port Ellen (2018), and Brora (2017) editions, the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost & Rare Pittyvaich continues the tradition of blending irreplaceable ghost whiskies with other rare expressions from the Johnnie Walker reserves to create an inimitable dram. 

In addition to the remaining stock of Pittyvaich, the latest Ghost & Rare expression is complemented by ghost whiskies from the distilleries of Port Dundas and Carsebridge, as well as rare scotch from the Speyside distilleries of Mannochmore, Auchroisk, Cragganmore, and Strathmill, and the Highland distillery Royal Lochnagar.

“It may only have thrived for a short period, but the whisky laid down by [Pittyvaich] distillery is something unmistakable,” said Jim Beveridge, Johnnie Walker Master Blender. “We have waited patiently for that perfect moment when we turn our thoughts to this fleetingly rare gem of the whisky world. Its distinct autumnal character has always intrigued us and fired our imagination to create something really special that would pay tribute to the whisky makers of this Speyside distillery.”

The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost & Rare Pittyvaich heroes the sweet fruit notes of fresh apple and autumnal flavours of its namesake distillery, balancing them with the subtle sweetness of honeycomb and soft wood from the Port Dundas and Carsebridge scotch. Meanwhile, other rare whiskies from the region lend the blend aromas of dark fruit and berries, before revealing butterscotch, stewing orchard fruits, and a hint of cinnamon. 

Housed in the series’ signature individually-numbered azure glass bottle, Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost & Rare Pittyvaich is available now in Australia from selected independent bottle shops and whisky specialists for RRP $520 AUD.


Words by T. Angel