Rock legends KISS and virtual band Gorillaz will each receive their own limited-edition Ballantine’s Finest bottles as part of the scotch whisky brand’s True Music Icons series launching in October 2025.
Ballantine’s Celebrates KISS with Destroyer-Inspired Design
The KISS edition features artwork based on the band’s 1976 Destroyer album cover, reimagined for the whisky bottle. The release coincides with KISS’s return to performing at KISS Kruise: Landlocked In Vegas this November, marking the 50th anniversary of their official fan club.
KISS formed in New York City in 1973 and became known for their face paint, theatrical live performances, and hits including “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “Detroit Rock City.” The band has sold over 100 million records worldwide and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
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READ THE STORYPaul-Andre Vacheron, Global Marketing Director for Ballantine’s at Chivas Brothers, commented: “This edition of True Music Icons continues our commitment to celebrating artists who defy convention. At Ballantine’s, we’ve always stood for those who stay true to who they are, and this KISS collection is a toast to the bands iconic style and personality and the impact they’ve made in music.”
Gorillaz Partnership Features Exclusive Jamie Hewlett Artwork
The Gorillaz bottle showcases a never-before-seen illustration of the virtual band’s four members – Murdoc Niccals, 2D, Russel Hobbs and Noodle – created exclusively by co-founder Jamie Hewlett. The release commemorates 25 years since the band’s formation.
Created by musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett in 1998, Gorillaz pioneered the concept of a virtual band. Their self-titled debut album went triple platinum in the UK, and they have since released eight studio albums, blending genres from hip-hop to electronic music.
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The True Music Icons series previously featured AC/DC and Queen in 2023, followed by Elton John and John Lennon in 2024. Each release celebrates artists who embody Ballantine’s “Stay True” philosophy.
Both limited-edition bottles will be available in select markets worldwide from October 2025. Pricing has not been announced. Ballantine’s ranks as the world’s second most popular Scotch whisky by volume according to industry data.
The releases continue Ballantine’s strategy of connecting with music fans through cultural partnerships. The brand, owned by Pernod Ricard’s Chivas Brothers division, has previously collaborated with various artists and music festivals globally.
