JOHNNIE WALKER BLACK LABEL LAUNCHES FUSIÓN

Two emerging Latin talents, designer Gustavo Arango and chef Aarón Sanchez, unite to create a unique entertainment experience.

New York, NY. Johnnie Walker Black Label has teamed up with designer Gustavo Arango, formerly of Bill Blass, and renowned chef and Food Network regular Aarón Sanchez to create an entertainment experience like no other. Johnnie Walker Fusión will pulse across America, pausing for one night only in the cities of Miami, Houston, New York and Los Angeles, to celebrate the bounties of the Latin sprit through creativity in expression.

"Johnnie Walker Fusión is a fusion of the sophistication and sensuality of the Johnnie Walker brand, with the style and creativity of two of the Hispanic community's rising stars," says Manny Gonzalez, Senior Brand Manager, Johnnie Walker. "In Gustavo and Aaron, we are thrilled to have found such talented and committed partners who will help us bring Fusión to life in each market."

Fusión will hit the cities of Miami and Houston beginning in November 2004 and will reemerge after the first of the year in New York and Los Angeles. Each exclusive event will be uniquely created by Arango and Sanchez to reflect the vitality and individuality of the host cities.

Guests, who will include local celebrities and influencers, will enjoy Johnnie Walker specialty cocktails, including a Fusión XXXX, created specifically for the event by Sanchez. Sanchez will also be putting his extraordinary culinary skills to work to create dishes reflective of each city's spirit. "The sophisticated flavor of Johnnie Walker has always intrigued me as a chef, and I am thrilled to be a part of such a unique program that will allow me to translate Johnnie Walker into my own cocktail creations, while creating dishes that resonate in each city."

For the first time, Arango will extend his talent to an interior space as he contributes to the look and feel of the venue, as well as putting his own personal stamp on the outfits that will be worn by the servers. "I was immediately drawn to Johnnie Walker Fusión, as it challenges me to evolve from creating beautiful dresses to developing an exciting and memorable experience from a blank canvas."

About Gustavo Arango:
Gustavo Arango is a true Latino designer thriving in the American fashion industry. His brand represents the lifestyle and tastes of a very chic international jet set. He designs and supervises his business from his Atelier in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and his office in 7th Avenue, New York City. The Gustavo Arango Fall 2004 Signature Collection will be available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Hugo Nicholson, Stanley Korshak, Joe Brand, Tsum and Betty Reider.

About Aarón Sanchez:
Aarón Sanchez is a chef, television personality, consultant, spokesperson and author. Aarón is a former co-host of Food Network's 'Melting Pot' and introduced America to his technique and creativity with contemporary interpretations of classic Latino cuisine. His first book, La Comida del Barrio, was published in May 2003. He has consulted with Proctor and Gamble, Target Stores and Ortega, as well as trade and food industry commissions worldwide.

About Johnnie Walker:
Johnnie Walker Black Label is the best-selling scotch brand that is joined by fellow Red Label, Green Label, Gold Label, and Blue Label - imported and distributed in the United States by Diageo North America. The product line covers a broad range of occasions for the whisky drinker from every day to special moments. The five premium brands represent a range of prices and tastes that share a remarkable 180-year history and a commitment to quality.
About Diageo:
Diageo is the world's leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, wines, and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Smirnoff, J&B, Baileys, Cuervo, Tanqueray, Captain Morgan, and Crown Royal, as well as Beaulieu Vineyard and Sterling Vineyards wines.

Diageo is a global company, trading in more than 200 markets around the world. The company is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE). For more information about Diageo, its people, brands, and performance, visit us at http://www.diageo.com . Celebrating life, every day, everywhere, responsibly.

For more information: Rembrandt Flores Fusion PR 323.822.2000 x101 rembrandt@fusionpublicity.com