In a world where music icons and classic spirits rarely mix with such flair, Johnnie Walker has teamed up with pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter for a partnership that's turning heads. This isn't just another celebrity endorsement—it's a fresh take on what it means to sip whisky with style, confidence, and a bit of edge. The two-time GRAMMY winner, known for her record-breaking hits, is bringing her unfiltered vibe to the whisky scene, proving that bold self-expression isn't limited to the stage.
The latest chapter kicked off with a new campaign film that captures Carpenter's playful spirit in a way that's both modern and timeless. Debuting on the jumbotron at her hometown concert in Pittsburgh on October 23, the video rolls out across all remaining stops on her Short n' Sweet Tour. It's a clever blend of her signature charm and that unapologetic attitude fans love, all wrapped around the idea of the contemporary whisky drinker. Think less stuffy gentlemen's club and more lively night out where music, culture, and a good pour come together effortlessly. The film is already out there for anyone to check out, showing how Carpenter and Johnnie Walker are redefining what it means to keep walking with swagger.
But this collaboration goes beyond the screen. To keep the energy flowing, they've rolled out three custom cocktails, all drawing inspiration from Carpenter's Short n' Sweet era. These aren't your average bar drinks—they're crafted to match the tour's vibe, perfect for fans over 21 looking to elevate their concert experience. At select tour stops, these signature serves featuring Johnnie Walker Black Label are available, making the night as unforgettable as the setlist. And for those not hitting the shows, the recipes are straightforward enough to mix up at home, with spots in cities like New York, Los Angeles, Nashville, and Pennsylvania offering them at local bars. Just follow @JohnnieWalkerUS on Instagram and check the bio link for updates on where to find them.
Image credit: Johnnie Walker
Let's break down these drinks, starting with the Go Go Highball. This one's a simple yet punchy highball that screams refreshment. You start with 30ml (that's about 1oz) of Johnnie Walker Black Label, then add 90ml (3oz) of Schweppes or another premium ginger ale, and top it off with 30ml (1oz) of sour cherry juice. The trick is to build it in a chilled highball glass over plenty of cubed ice, pouring the cherry juice last for that cool drizzle effect. Garnish with two black cherries, and you've got a drink that's easy to make but packs a tart, spicy kick—ideal for kicking back after a long day or pre-gaming a night out.
Image credit: Johnnie Walker
Next up is the Short n' Sour, a more involved shake that's worth the effort for its layered flavors. It calls for 60ml (2oz) of Johnnie Walker Black Label as the base, mixed with 30ml (1oz) of homemade strawberry and rose syrup, 22.5ml (¾ oz) each of aquafaba and lemon juice, a dash of 1.25ml (¼ tsp) apple cider vinegar, and three drops of a 1:4 saline solution. Shake it first with one ice cube to whip it up, then add more ice and shake again before straining into a double rocks glass with a big cube, like Kold Draft or a 2x2. Finish with a grind of black pepper and a purple basil leaf. The result? A sour that's smooth, floral, and a touch savory—great for impressing friends at a backyard gathering or pairing with some grilled meats.
Speaking of the strawberry and rose syrup, it's easy to whip up ahead of time. Take 240g (8oz) of fresh strawberries, slice them thin with a mandolin or knife, and mix with an equal weight of white sugar—240g (8oz). Stir to coat, seal it in a container, and let it sit in the fridge overnight. Strain it through a fine mesh, mix in any leftover sugar, strain again, and stir in 10ml (⅓ oz) of rose water. This syrup adds that sweet, rosy twist that ties back to Carpenter's feminine yet fierce aesthetic, but don't let that fool you—it's versatile for all sorts of cocktails.
Image credit: Johnnie Walker
Rounding out the trio is Man(hattan’s) Best Friend, a stirred classic with a twist that's sure to become a go-to for whisky purists. Combine 45ml (1.5oz) Johnnie Walker Black Label with 22.5ml (¾ oz) of Antica Formula sweet vermouth, 5ml (1 tsp) each of Amaro Montenegro and espresso, and 2.5ml (½ tsp) of simple syrup (that's just 1:1 sugar and water). Stir it all in a mixing glass with ice to chill and dilute, then strain into a chilled coupe—no ice needed. The garnish is where it gets fun: a skewered orange peel disk and a chocolate coffee bean. To make it, warm the end of a metal cocktail pick in hot water or over a flame, press a chocolate-covered coffee bean onto it lengthwise, and chill in the fridge for a few minutes to set. Cut a disk from an orange peel using a 1-inch cutter or knife, express the oils over the drink, and skewer it onto the pick behind the bean before dropping it in.
This one's got that rich, bitter-sweet profile with coffee notes that evoke late-night conversations or winding down after work. It's a nod to the traditional Manhattan but updated with amaro and espresso for a modern edge, making it feel like a loyal companion on those evenings when you want something sophisticated without the fuss.
What makes this partnership stand out is how it taps into that sense of owning your space—whether you're at a packed arena show or just enjoying a quiet pour at home. Carpenter's rise as a global superstar, with her unfiltered confidence, mirrors the timeless appeal of Johnnie Walker, a brand that's been about progress and boldness since day one. For guys who've seen a few trends come and go, this collab is a reminder that life's better when you mix things up a bit. It's not about chasing the latest fad; it's about embracing what feels authentic, like savoring a well-made drink that hits all the right notes.
As the Short n' Sweet Tour wraps up its final leg, these cocktails and the campaign film are set to linger, inspiring more than just tour-goers to raise a glass. Whether you're rediscovering whisky through a highball with a cherry twist or stirring up a Manhattan variant that feels like an old friend, this duo is proving that confidence comes in many forms—and sometimes, it's as simple as the perfect sip. So next time you're reaching for that bottle of Black Label, think about adding a splash of Carpenter's flair. It might just make your night a little sweeter.
