Olivier Rousteing Launches Couture Expression Whisky Collection

NEW YORK, NY — Olivier Rousteing, the creative director of Balmain, has partnered with Johnnie Walker Vault to launch an exclusive whisky collection called Couture Expression. The collection features four unique blends inspired by the four seasons and aims to fuse the worlds of high fashion and whisky.

Rousteing’s collaboration with Johnnie Walker began over 18 months ago in conjunction with Dr. Emma Walker, the Master Blender of Johnnie Walker. The collection showcases a blend of 500 rare whiskies, drawing on seasonal themes that reflect Rousteing’s childhood memories.

“I was intrigued by the opportunity to apply my art to a new medium,” said Rousteing. “This collaboration transformed into a creative exploration of the seasons, reflecting the energies and emotions each brings—rebirth in spring, airy freedom in summer, introspection in autumn, and comfort in winter.”

The spring blend, featuring Cragganmore 1985 and Port Ellen 1978, offers floral and refreshing notes. For summer, the Clynelish 1990 incorporates tropical fruit flavors. Autumn’s mix combines a chocolate malt from Teaninich with the smokiness of Port Ellen, while winter features Islay malts with the smoothness of Benrinnes 1988.

Emma Walker stated, “We deliberately chose to use the same whiskies across seasons, adjusting proportions and textures to create four distinct expressions of whisky.”

Rousteing also designed the bottle, which is crafted from Baccarat crystal and showcases metallic drapes in gold, silver, rose gold, and black, resembling high-fashion garments. “I envisioned a structured armor symbolizing strength and resilience, yet wrapped in softness to reveal the exquisite liquid within,” he said.

The Couture Expression collection will be unveiled on May 26, with a pre-launch event at Harrods starting May 5. Each of the 25 units per blend is priced at $20,000.