Diageo is introducing Jane Walker, the first-ever female iteration of Johnnie Walker’s iconic Striding Man logo.
Johnnie Walker Black Label The Jane Walker Edition will be available nationwide starting March 2018 wherever fine spirits are sold, with a suggested retail price of $34.00 (750 ml/bottle, 40% ABV).
Women have played a significant role in the brand’s history dating back to 1893, when John Walker & Sons purchased the Cardhu distillery from Elizabeth Cumming. Cardhu is one of the single malts that comprises Johnnie Walker Black Label and is considered the heartbeat of the blend.
Elizabeth Walker, the wife of founder John Walker, was also fundamental to the creation of their own blended whisky, working alongside John and their son Alexander in the original Walker grocery shop. Today, nearly 50% of the brand’s 12 expert blenders are women, with female leadership across marketing and C-Level executives.
“Important conversations about gender continue to be at the forefront of culture and we strongly believe there is no better time than now to introduce our Jane Walker icon and contribute to pioneering organizations that share our mission,” said Stephanie Jacoby, Vice President of Johnnie Walker. “We are proud to toast the many achievements of women and everyone on the journey towards progress in gender equality.”
To support this effort as part of Keep Walking America, Johnnie Walker will be donating $1 for every bottle of the Jane Walker Edition made to organizations championing women’s causes, with a total donation of up to $250,000, including a donation of $150,000 to the Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony Statue Fund and its Monumental Women campaign.
Monumental Women, a nonprofit dedicated to creating a monument honoring America’s women suffragists in New York City’s Central Park, where there are 23 statues of historical figures but not one honoring a real woman.