INDIA. In a major coup for India’s newest travel retail business, Delhi Duty Free has become the launch customer for Diageo’s Johnnie Walker XR 21yo Scotch whisky, at Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 3.
The Johnnie Walker XR 21yo is exclusively available at Delhi Duty Free for US$105 during the month of November.
The blend, said to be a “poignant tribute to Sir Alexander Walker, grandson to founder John Walker”, is sourced from the private reserves of the Master Blender, including extra rare casks from now silent distilleries. It has been finely aged over 21 years to achieve what Diageo claims to be “an exceptional quality and flavour”.
 |  |
 |
The new Johnnie Walker XR 21yo retails exclusively at Delhi Duty Free during November |
Delhi Duty Free CEO Nicholas Goddard Palmer said: “Delhi Duty Free is viewed today as a premium retail destination within India catering to a diverse audience, who are well travelled and brand-conscious.
“With an estimated 10 million travellers passing through India’s international airport, Delhi Duty Free offers a comprehensive range of Scotch whiskies, besides having a dedicated speciality area for single malts, Uisge Beatha (Water of Life). It is one of a kind in India, with over 80 single malt whiskies available. We have experienced overwhelming passenger interest and interactions across the Johnnie Walker portfolio and are honoured to be a part of the worldwide launch of Johnnie Walker XR 21yo blended Scotch whisky.”
The new 21yo is an exclusive blend inspired by the handwritten notes of Sir Alexander, who was a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Sir Alexander was knighted in 1920. The honour was bestowed upon him in recognition of his services for king and country.
Diageo India (Hub) Head of Travel Retail Shivam Misra said: “Johnnie Walker is an iconic brand in India and enjoys an incredible following. Today we are very proud to be the first in the world to present our consumers with the Johnnie Walker XR 21yo, with our partner Delhi Duty Free. With the launch of the new T3 international terminal and equally unique retail environment operated by Delhi Duty Free, the traveller’s shopping experience has been greatly enhanced.
“With the support of Delhi Duty Free we’ve achieved great success across our brands and we are confident that this new milestone in our partnership will pave the way for greater growth for both partners. We are sure that the true connoisseurs of Scotch whisky will appreciate the new blend.”
 |
 |
The new line has been given a strong showcase at Delhi Duty Free’s T3 store |
Tasting notes
Overall character: Indulgent, rounded and multi-layered. Beginning with the sweetness of golden honey and vanilla before culminating in rich, aged oak.
Appearance: Shady, deep gold flecked with lighter glints that give way to a smooth, lighter brown as the liquid flows out of the bottle into the glass.
Nose: Full and rich, with the malts and grains evident in notes of the aged oak.
Palate: Smooth balance of golden honey, vanilla and sweet fruits evolving into the deep richness of aged oak.
Finish: Lingers with a layer of aged oak.
