In a groundbreaking collaboration celebrating their respective legacies of luxury and innovation, The Macallan, revered for its mastery in single malt Scotch whisky, and Bentley Motors, an icon of automotive excellence, have unveiled their crowning achievement: The Macallan Horizon.
Marking a momentous milestone in The Macallan's 200th-anniversary celebrations, The Macallan Horizon is more than a whisky; it is a testament to the convergence of two worlds – the world of fine spirits and the realm of high-performance automobiles. Conceived from a year-long partnership that commenced in July 2021, this remarkable creation represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship, innovation, and collaboration.
At the heart of this extraordinary endeavour lies a vessel unlike any other. The bottle itself, a marvel of design, lies horizontally, echoing the sleek contours of a Bentley car. With a 180-degree twist detail reminiscent of the open road, and a diamond-cut lid inspired by the intricate details found in Bentley's headlights and upholstery, it defies convention and sets a new standard of elegance.
Crafted from six distinct materials, each symbolising The Macallan's "six pillars" – the foundation stones of their illustrious brand – The Macallan Horizon embodies a fusion of tradition and modernity. Encased in glass, the vessel is adorned with an aluminium ribbon, paying homage to Bentley's legacy of precision engineering. Embraced within a sculpted leather casing, sustainably crafted and low-carbon, it represents a commitment to sustainability and excellence.
Further elevating this masterpiece are the finer details, where craftsmanship meets artistry. The closure, meticulously adorned with an inlay of oak wood, and the sculpture finished with Bentley's renowned Crown Cut Walnut veneer, evoke a sense of opulence and refinement synonymous with both brands.
Yet, it is the liquid within that truly captivates the senses. Conceived by master whisky maker Kirsteen Campbell, this exclusive expression is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Sourced from six first-fill Sherry-seasoned oak casks, each imparting its unique character, it embodies the essence of a Bentley – bold, refined, and unforgettable.
Upon nosing, one is greeted with the intoxicating aroma of resinous polished oak, intertwined with the sweetness of plums and dark cherries. On the palate, layers of complexity unfold, with notes of dark treacle, cinder toffee, crystallised ginger, and charred pineapple dancing across the senses. The finish, enduring and nuanced, leaves a lasting impression of rich oak, a testament to the craftsmanship and expertise that went into its creation.
Jaume Ferras, creative director at The Macallan, speaks passionately about the collaboration, highlighting the profound exchange of expertise and the shared vision that brought The Macallan Horizon to life. He emphasises the transformative impact of Bentley's influence, challenging conventions and inspiring a new perspective on whisky craftsmanship.
Priced at £40,000 (US$51,274), this limited edition release is a testament to the uncompromising dedication to quality and excellence that defines both The Macallan and Bentley Motors. Adrian Hallmark, Bentley's chairman and CEO, echoes this sentiment, expressing pride in the culmination of years of collaboration and innovation.
In an era where luxury is defined by innovation and craftsmanship, The Macallan Horizon stands as a beacon of excellence, a celebration of tradition, and a testament to the enduring partnership between two iconic brands. As enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike raise a glass to toast this extraordinary achievement, one thing is certain – The Macallan Horizon is not merely a whisky; it is a masterpiece in every sense of the word.
About the Macallan
The Macallan is a revered Scotch whisky distillery based in Craigellachie, Moray, Scotland in the Speyside region. Founded in 1824 by Alexander Reid, The Macallan has established itself as one of the most prestigious and sought-after whisky brands in the world. The distillery is renowned for its commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and innovation, producing single malt whiskies that are prized for their complexity, richness, and depth of flavour.
The Macallan's whiskies are crafted using traditional methods and the finest quality ingredients. The distillery sources its barley from carefully selected suppliers and uses water from the nearby River Spey, renowned for its purity and softness. The whisky-making process at The Macallan involves fermentation in wooden washbacks, distillation in copper pot stills, and ageing in oak casks, all of which contribute to the distinctive character of its whiskies.
One of The Macallan's defining features is its dedication to ageing its whiskies in sherry-seasoned oak casks. These casks, sourced from Spain, are carefully seasoned with sherry for up to two years before being used to age The Macallan's whisky. This maturation process imparts rich flavours of dried fruit, spice, and oak to the whisky, creating a signature profile that is synonymous with The Macallan.
The Macallan offers a range of expressions, from its core range of age-statement whiskies to limited-edition releases and special cask finishes. Each expression is crafted with meticulous attention to detail and reflects the distillery's pursuit of excellence. The Macallan's whiskies are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs, with some of its rarest and oldest bottlings fetching record prices at auctions around the world.
In addition to its whiskies, The Macallan is known for its striking distillery and visitor centre, which opened in 2018. Designed by renowned architects, the distillery is a blend of modernity and tradition, reflecting The Macallan's commitment to innovation while paying homage to its heritage. Visitors to the distillery can learn about the whisky-making process, explore the extensive range of whiskies, and immerse themselves in the world of The Macallan. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, The Macallan's whiskies offer a luxurious and unforgettable drinking experience for whisky enthusiasts everywhere.
