A family of blended whiskies targeted at export markets around the world, Royal Salute was originally launched in 1953 to commemorate the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
With the use of ceramic to produce luxury, commemorative decanters well-established, we’ve enjoyed a working relationship with the whisky makers Chivas Brothers since 1982, producing our take on luxury ceramic decanters for the Royal Salute brand.
Initially with 23 products and variants in the range, in 2003 we designed and produced a limited edition, 50-year-old whisky to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee, of which only 225 were made.
This commemorative decanter had a solid silver gilt badge, sourced by Wade. Bringing the ceramic and metal together was no mean feat, with the skill and dedication of the team being tested to the limits. They managed to overcome the technical challenges and successfully complete the task to the highest of standards. Standards befitting of a Queen.
For the launch of Johnnie Walker House in Shanghai – a four story house used to market Scottish whisky to Chinese consumers and tell the story of the brand’s history through interactive installation made from materials used in the whisky-making process – Wade worked with Diageo and creative agency LOVE in designing the Johnnie Walker 1910 Commemorative Edition bottle.
As a series of commemorative edition bottles, this told the story, in print, of the Johnnie Walker whisky brand and its passage from Scotland to China running around and across seven bottles.
Referencing the Chinese decorative style of blue and white porcelain, the Johnnie Walker Blue brand was a “for sale by invitation only” blend, with only 1,000 bottles being created for the House.
The design won a coveted D&AD yellow pencil award in 2012. Originally intended solely for the Shanghai experience, the project was so successful that it has been developed further and taken to Mumbai, Seoul, Taiwan as well as Schipol Airport.
Having produced various decanters for The Famous Grouse since 1993, Wade was commissioned in 2011 to create something special to help celebrate the 100th anniversary of the brand.
We worked closely with the design agency, Lewis Moberly, over a 6 month period to ensure that the brand integrity was maintained from concept, to development and into production. This was achieved with Wade sourcing and managing all production aspects of the decanter, print and artwork supply.
The Famous Grouse porcelain decanter was gilded in 24 Carat Gold. It depicts the red grouse in its natural habitat; a representation of the ‘Summer in the Highlands’ painting by the Scottish artist Stanley Todd.
The product was cast and hand decorated by Wade with 30,000 being produced. It was designed to promote the brand in overseas markets being re-usable to further encourage sales.
D.R. Harris was established in 1790, and their gentleman’s grooming products and wide range of unisex haircare products, skincare lines and soaps have been enjoyed by families and distinguished individuals ever since.
Recognised with three Royal Warrants as Chemists – to Her Majesty the Queen Mother in 1938, to HRH the Prince of Wales in 2002, and to Her Majesty the Queen for Pharmacist and Pharmacy Supplies in 2012 – there can be little doubt that D.R. Harris is a manufacturer of the utmost distinction.
Which is why we were delighted to work with them on one of their new products. Part of the bestselling collection, their Arlington cologne – with light citrus notes mixed with hints of fern, to give a lively but subtle scent – required a bottle which captured their brand essence and provided excellent standout when displayed.
We focused on creating a 100ml ceramic bottle using an intricate print to decorate the product. It’s a great example of the type of projects Wade can deliver. Our print suppliers can work with almost any artwork to produce a stunning final piece – practical, beautiful and making a statement which completely sets it apart.
With craftsmanship at the very heart of our company, we’ve developed a process which ensures quality at every stage of manufacturing. From product innovation, to state-of-the-art technology, at Wade this is how we combine the best of British workmanship with contemporary and premium style.
