Events & Conferences

Johnnie Walker Launches “Blonde” Whisky in Kenya, Targeting a New Generation of Scotch Drinkers

Duncan Mokaya, Shopper Manager at Johnnie Walker, Grace Ndiege, Influence and Advocacy Manager at Dgitribe, EABL, Shirlyn Ndumbu, Johnnie Walker Brand Manager, Alvin Mbugua, General Manager, Spirits, EABL and Dan Obura, Senior Program Manager, Digitribe, EABL posing for a photo during the influencer and media launch of Johnnie Walker Blonde at Africa Heritage House.

Johnnie Walker, the world’s No.1 Scotch whisky brand, has officially launched Johnnie Walker Blonde in Kenya, introducing a lighter, sweeter, and smoother expression designed to appeal to a new generation of whisky lovers. The launch marks Kenya’s inclusion in the global rollout of this innovative blend, tailored to match the country’s vibrant sundowner culture and growing appetite for premium spirits.

Crafted by expert whisky maker George Harper under the guidance of Johnnie Walker Master Blender Emma Walker, Johnnie Walker Blonde combines bright Scotch from Cameronbridge with fruity malts from Cardhu, matured in American oak casks to create delicate notes of toffee and caramel. The result is a refreshing, approachable Scotch that delivers depth and character while remaining easy to enjoy for both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and first-time drinkers.

Speaking during the launch, Alvin Mbugua, General Manager, Spirits at East African Breweries Limited (EABL), highlighted Kenya’s growing importance in the African premium spirits market:

“Kenya is one of the most exciting premium spirits markets in Africa. Consumers here are curious, open to discovery, and eager to embrace new experiences. Johnnie Walker Blonde brings something completely different to the Scotch category. It’s bright, versatile, and perfect for the social, celebratory occasions Kenyans love. We cannot wait to see how our consumers make it their own.”

The launch comes at a time when global and local drinking trends are shifting, with consumers increasingly exploring refreshing cocktail-style serves and highballs. Johnnie Walker Blonde responds to this trend by offering a lighter, fruitier, and more versatile option that’s easy to mix and perfect for social occasions.

According to Jean Okech-Nyawara, Head of Marketing, Spirits at EABL, the goal is to make Scotch whisky more inclusive and accessible:

“With Johnnie Walker Blonde, we are opening up Scotch to new occasions and new drinkers here in Kenya. It is vibrant, easy to mix, and crafted for those moments of connection and celebration.”

For the perfect serve, Johnnie Walker recommends pouring Blonde over ice, topping it with lemonade, and finishing with a wedge of orange — an ideal cocktail for Nairobi’s rooftop sundowners, beachside gatherings, and weekend parties.

The new expression is available in 750ml bottles at a recommended retail selling price (RRSP) of Ksh 2,800. Consumers can also order online via ke.thebar.com for convenient home delivery across the country.

Kenya joins other African markets — including Nigeria, Ghana, and Zambia — where Johnnie Walker Blonde has already launched successfully, as part of the brand’s mission to spark a new whisky movement across the continent.

With its bold, refreshing taste and vibrant personality, Johnnie Walker Blonde is set to redefine how Kenyans enjoy Scotch, introducing a more playful and social dimension to whisky culture.