Diageo, the global leader in beverage alcohol, has marked a significant milestone in sustainable design and innovation with the release of its lightest ever 70cl glass bottle for whisky. This groundbreaking development is showcased in a limited edition offering: the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra.
Weighing in at a mere 6.3 ounces (180 grams), the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra bottle represents a substantial reduction in glass weight compared to traditional whisky bottles. This achievement is the result of five years of dedicated research and development by Diageo’s design team, leveraging patented glass technology developed in-house. The creation of this lighter bottle not only reduces material usage but also contributes to a lower carbon footprint throughout the supply chain.
In a move that underscores Diageo’s commitment to fostering industry-wide progress, the company is taking an unprecedented step. For the first time, a license to this newly patented glass technology will be offered on an open-sourced, royalty-free basis to individuals and organizations worldwide. This initiative aims to encourage broader adoption of sustainable glass packaging solutions across various sectors.
Jeremy Lindley, Global Design Director at Diageo, commented on the significance of this innovation, stating, “Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra was born out of a vision for the future of luxury – one that embraces lighter, sustainable, and innovative design without compromising craftsmanship.” This sentiment highlights the dual focus of this project: pushing the boundaries of sustainable packaging while maintaining the premium quality and aesthetic expected from a luxury brand like Johnnie Walker Blue Label. 
To celebrate this pioneering achievement and the intersection of innovation and art, Johnnie Walker has partnered with a selection of North American-based artists and designers, alongside the esteemed Corning Museum of Glass. These collaborations will result in unique artistic pieces inspired by the intricate glass technology behind the Blue Label Ultra bottle. These works will be unveiled to the public during NYCxDesign in May, at an exhibition hosted at the prestigious Cristina Grajales Gallery in New York, USA.
The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra itself is a highly limited release, with only 888 bottles available globally. Adding to its exclusivity, the liquid within these bottles includes select ‘ghost whiskies’ – rare and precious spirits from distilleries that are no longer operational. This combination of innovative packaging and exceptional liquid makes the Blue Label Ultra a truly unique and collectible item.
The release of the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra is a testament to Diageo’s forward-thinking approach to design, sustainability, and collaboration. By openly sharing their technological advancements, Diageo is not only enhancing the sustainability of their own products but also paving the way for a more environmentally conscious future for the wider industry. This initiative represents a significant step towards a future of luxury that is both exquisite and responsible.
Source: Diageo with additional information added by GlassBalkan
