Johnnie Walker may know whisky, but our April 2024 cover star Yoyo Cao knows taste. As part of the launch of the new luxury platform Johnnie Walker Vault, the multihyphenate fashion entrepreneur worked with master blender Dr Emma Walker to bottle something uniquely her own. The result? A private whisky blend that draws from her go-to comfort cuisines, jet-set memories, and the ephemeral beauty of Japan’s sakura season.

It's bold but balanced, much like Cao, with notes of dark chocolate, warming spices, and a smoky finish—a flavour profile inspired by the rich depth of Japanese cuisine and the elegance of the Sakura season. Here, the content creator takes us through her personal palette.

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You’re a whisky drinker? Colour us impressed! How did you get started on this typical man’s drink?

Whisky being seen as a “man’s drink” is such an outdated mindset. I was drawn to Johnnie Walker because of the rich storytelling behind each blend—it’s a drink full of character, depth, and craftsmanship, which really resonates with me. It’s less about gender and more about appreciating something truly timeless.

Can you share how this collaboration with Johnnie Walker came about?

It felt like a natural collaboration—I’ve always admired Johnnie Walker’s history and how they honour innovation. When the opportunity to work with Dr Emma Walker on the Johnnie Walker Vault launch came up, I was excited to be part of something so thoughtfully crafted. The artistry behind the Vault really speaks to my work as an entrepreneur, where creativity and individuality are everything.

How do you think your Johnnie Walker Vault blend challenges the perception that whisky is just for men?

The Johnnie Walker Vault experience is all about personal expression. My blend reflects my unique style and journey, showing that whisky can be just as layered and bold as the person enjoying it. It’s not about gender—it’s about storytelling, taste, and self-expression.

What’s the best way to convince people to try Johnnie Walker?

The best way is to simply share the experience—let them taste it and see how versatile and refined it can be. There’s a Johnnie Walker for every palate, and once you find your blend, it becomes more than just a drink.

Do you have a favourite Johnnie Walker blend?

After this experience, it has to be my own blend! Emma truly captured my inspirations and preferences and turned them into something so personal and meaningful. It’s like having my own signature scent, but in whisky form.

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How has your palate for whisky changed over the years, and do you have a special way to enjoy it?

I’ve definitely become more curious and adventurous with whisky over time. I used to prefer something smooth and subtle, but now I appreciate a bolder, more layered profile. I usually enjoy it neat, with time to really savour the complexity.

How did you approach creating your very own Johnnie Walker blend? What did you learn from this experience?

It was such a fascinating process! I filled out a detailed questionnaire about my favourite moments, places, colours, and feelings, and had conversations with Emma about my creative world. From there, she selected notes from over 500 rare whiskies to build my blend—it was like turning memories into flavour. I learned that blending whisky is a true art form, just like fashion or design.

How does your whisky blend reflect your personal style and journey?

It captures who I am—elegant but with an edge, thoughtful but surprising. There’s a balance of warmth and boldness that really mirrors the way I approach both fashion and entrepreneurship. It feels like a reflection of the evolution of my personal story

If your whisky blend were an outfit, what would it look like?

It would be something unexpected—classic in silhouette but with a bold, modern twist with an edge.

If you had to pair your bespoke whisky with a dish/dessert, what would it be? When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Perhaps tiramisu, for its rich layers and subtle kick. I explored many dreams, but fashion was the one that truly captivated me.