Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail (GTR) has released the latest collection in its Artist Series, a two-bottle collection from Ballantine’s designed by Korean artist Noh Sangho. The limited-edition range comprises the Ballantine’s 17 Year Old and global travel retail-exclusive Ballantine’s 21 Year Old expressions.
The former launched in the Korean market in June, while the latter launched in Asia Pacific travel retail in May. Both whiskies feature vibrant labels and presentation boxes designed by Noh.
The designs take inspiration from the concept ‘Time Well Spent’, which is the Ballantine’s brand slogan. For this collaboration, Noh drew inspiration from his own personal memories and the concept of spending making time to create moments that matter.
Noh created two vivid paintings for his collaboration with Ballantine’s entitled The Great Chapbook — Time Well Spent. The evocative paintings portray colourful landscapes with people enjoying different outdoor activities. One of the paintings features on the 21 Year Old expression, while the other features on the 17 Year Old blend.
“We’re proud to have partnered with Ballantine’s for the launch of the latest collection in the Artist Series,” commented Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail Vice President of Marketing Liya Zhang.
“The label and packaging which have been designed by Noh Sangho for the 21 Year Old blend perfectly align with the brand’s rich heritage and commitment to expert quality, and is a fantastic example of two fine arts, whisky and painting, blending together to create something unique and beautiful.
“We’re excited to launch the new limited edition 21 Year Old blend exclusively for travellers and whisky enthusiasts in global travel retail, as it’s the perfect bottle for both collectors and gifting occasions.”
Commenting on his partnership with Ballantine’s, Noh said: “When Ballantine’s introduced me to its Time Well Spent ethos, it was a concept that deeply resonated with me and reminded me of many happy memories enjoying time with my loved ones. I painted people doing things that they love and expressed the deepening of time whilst enjoying each other’s company, using different colours and accents. This correlates with my creative process; drawing objects, moments and people that I have encountered every day for the past ten years.”
Ballantine’s Master Blender Sandy Hyslop, one of only five Master Blenders in Ballantine’s 195-year history, took inspiration from his own memories to create the two whiskies.
The Ballantine’s 21 Year Old expression offers rich liquorice and aromatic spice flavours, blended with honey, apple and floral aromas. It has an RRP of US$144. ✈
