Diageo says the Scotch whisky brand has always stood for progress, and the Jane Walker edition is a sign of its commitment to gender equality.
The Jane Walker edition will feature a female version of the Johnnie Walker ‘Striding Man’ icon.
Stephanie Jacoby, vice president of Johnnie Walker, said: "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.
"We are proud to toast the many achievements of women and everyone on the journey towards progress in gender equality."
Diageo says nearly half of the brand’s 12 expert blenders are women and it has female leadership across marketing and C-level executives.
It also points to the women in Johnnie Walker’s history: including Elizabeth Walker, the wife of founder John Walker, who worked in the original Walker grocery shop. 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 called the ‘heartbeat of the blend’.
A $1 donation towards organizations championing women’s causes will be made for every Jane Walker bottle sold, up to a total of $250,000.
A portion of proceeds will also be donated to She Should Run, an organisation dedicated to inspiring women to run for office.
Johnnie Walker Black Label The Jane Walker Edition will be sold across the US from March, with a suggested retail price of $34 for a 750ml bottle (40% ABV).
