By Roy Ronald Tumwizere
Every third Saturday in May, the world raises a glass to one of the most storied and enduring spirits in history: whisky. World Whisky Day is more than a toast, it’s a global celebration of character, craft, and culture. From the windswept coastlines of Scotland to the vibrant lounges and dinner tables of Kampala, whisky connects us through flavour, heritage, and shared experience.
At its heart, whisky is about discovery. Whether you’re a lifelong enthusiast or just beginning your journey, every dram has a story to tell.
As custodians of the Diageo Reserve portfolio in Uganda, we at Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL) are proud to offer a wide range of whiskies, each one crafted for different palates, moods, and moments.
From the smooth and approachable Singleton, ideal for those seeking a gentle introduction to single malts, to the maritime spice of Talisker or the bold, smoky depth of Lagavulin, there’s a flavour for every personality. And of course, Johnnie Walker, the world’s most iconic Scotch, continues to lead the charge. From the versatile Black Label to the rare elegance of Blue Label, each blend is a masterclass in craftsmanship and complexity.
One of the most remarkable things about whisky is its versatility. There’s no single way to enjoy it and that’s the beauty. Sip it neat to appreciate its structure, add a touch of water to open up its aroma, pour it over ice for a refreshing twist, or explore it through cocktails. Pair it with chocolate, cheese, grilled meats, or seafood, whisky adapts, elevates, and surprises.
But more than how it’s served, it’s the mindset that matters. Whisky invites us to slow down, savour, and connect to notice the aroma, the colour, the finish, and the company.
At UBL, our mission is to make whisky more than just a spirit on a shelf. We aim to make it part of people’s lives in meaningful, exciting ways. That’s why we created The Walkers Tour, a series of immersive, multi-sensory events that brought whisky into the worlds of fashion, music, art, and storytelling. These experiences redefined how Ugandans engage with whisky, not as something intimidating, but as something to explore and enjoy.
A special part of this journey has been the She Walks mentorship initiative under the Johnnie Walker banner, challenging outdated notions that whisky is a man’s drink. For too long, the language of whisky excluded women. Through intimate tastings, mentorship events, and educational sessions, She Walks has welcomed ambitious, dynamic women into the world of whisky, not just to enjoy it, but to own it. The result has been powerful: women discovering their palates, their confidence, and their voice in spaces that once overlooked them.
It’s worth remembering that one of the foundational malts in the Johnnie Walker blend, Cardhu, was pioneered by a woman. In the 1800s, Helen Cumming quietly defied convention, distilling and selling whisky with determination and vision. Today, Cardhu remains essential to our blends and a reminder that whisky has always had a place for women, even if the world is only now catching up.
Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) delivered us here. Can it continue?This year has also seen the evolution of one of Uganda’s most exclusive whisky circles, the Johnnie Walker Blue Club. Originally launched in 2015 as a space for elite achievers, it has since evolved to reflect the modern face of influence. Today, the Blue Club embraces a new generation of bold, visionary leaders, blending legacy with progress in a way that honours both past and future.
This World Whisky Day, we are celebrating not just the whisky in the glass, but the culture around it, the conversations it sparks, the stories it tells, and the connections it deepens.
Tomorrow Saturday May 17, we will mark the day with an exclusive culinary experience at Mediterano, one of Kampala’s finest dining spaces. The evening will feature a specially curated menu by a celebrated Ugandan chef, with each course expertly paired with expressions of The Singleton. Pairing whisky with food is one of the most delicious ways to experience its richness, elegance, and range.
This dinner also marks the launch of our new campaign: “Savour the Single Moments” a month-long series of elevated dining experiences at top venues like Silo, Rosa Wine Bar, Dymz, and Elevate. Each event invites guests to slow down and enjoy The Singleton alongside dishes crafted to highlight the whisky’s layered profile, a true celebration of modern taste.
So whether you join us in person or raise a glass wherever you are, this World Whisky Day, let’s toast not only to the liquid , but to what it stands for: character, craft, culture, and courage.
By Roy Ronald Tumwizere National Advocacy Manager, Luxury Portfolio Reserve, Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL).
Here’s to walking your own path; one sip at a time
http://historyheroines.com/2018/12/11/helen-and-elizabeth-cumming/