10th April, 2015 by Amy Hopkins

Diageo’s Johnnie Walker Scotch whisky has built glass which uses “bone conduction technology” to transmit music into a drinker’s ear.

To promote its Johnnie Walker Red Label and ginger ale serve, the brand has launched The Boldest Glass, which transmits tiny vibrations through the lower jaw, creating a unique audio to “enhance the brain’s perception” of the drink.

A concealed exciter, which turns the surface of the glass into a speaker, creates the minute vibrations. The audio itself is beamed from an AM/FM transmitter through to an amplifier housed in the base of the glass.

Diageo describes the product as an “industry first” in linking drinks and music in an “intimate fashion”, creating future possibilities to experiment with glass.

“This could potentially be a revolution within a culture that hasn’t changed in decades,” said Oscar Ocana, Johnnie Walker brand director. “The glass is set to give drinkers a glimpse of what bar culture could be like in the future and we’re so excited for drinkers to experience the boldest version ever of a Johnnie and Ginger.

“The glass’ track has been designed to enhance the flavours of the serve, bringing out the spicy and warm tones. As a result, the drinker is ultimately more connected to the drink, making for an exciting experience that combines flavour with sound”.

The glass was co-developed by sensory scientist group Condiment Junkie, which also designed the complementary audio track.

Johnnie Walker has pioneered a number of drinks-related innovations in recent months, unveiling a “smart bottle” that uses sensor tags to assure authenticity in February.

Back in December 2014, the brand partnered with men’s footwear specialist Oliver Sweeney to create a pair of brogues that can hide a miniature bottle of whisky in their heels.