In a grand gesture to commemorate its illustrious 200-year journey, The Macallan, the epitome of opulence in the world of Scotch whisky, has unveiled its latest gem: Tales of The Macallan Volume II. This exquisite release stands as a testament to the distillery's rich legacy, paying homage to its founder, Alexander Reid, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for the iconic brand we know today.
Alexander Reid's legacy is deeply ingrained in the ethos of The Macallan. Resisting the allure of large-scale production, Reid's commitment to patience and quality set the distillery on a path of uncompromised excellence—a tradition that endures to this day. Tales of The Macallan Volume II encapsulates this spirit, offering enthusiasts a glimpse into the bygone era of whisky craftsmanship.
Crafted by the skilled hands of whisky maker Euan Kennedy, this limited edition elixir is a masterful blend sourced from the 1949 vintage and matured for an astonishing 73 years. Each drop, with its alluring 44.8% ABV, emanates a rich, smoky essence reminiscent of whiskies from Alexander Reid's era—a fitting tribute to the distillery's founding patriarch.
Presented in bespoke Lalique crystal decanters, each meticulously etched with scenes of Reid's journey, Tales of The Macallan Volume II exudes elegance and sophistication. Renowned British illustrator Andrew Davidson lends his talent to the endeavour, adorning the pages of an 800-page almanack with intricate wood engravings that bring Reid's narrative to life.
But the opulence doesn't end there. The almanack, a work of art in its own right, is a collaboration of master craftsmen. London-based bookbinders Shepherds, Sangorski & Sutcliffe and Zaehnsdorf spared no effort in its creation, concealing the decanter within its pages with precision and finesse. Meanwhile, artisans at Imprimerie du Marais in Paris, renowned for their luxury printing techniques, meticulously brought each page to life.
As if this weren't enough, a captivating short film, set to an original composition by Scottish folk music maestro Craig Armstrong, accompanies the release. This cinematic ode to The Macallan's legacy transports viewers to the heart of Scotland's rugged landscape, reflecting on the essence of heritage and creation.
Of course, such unparalleled luxury comes with a price tag to match. Priced at £77,391, with only 344 decanters available worldwide, Tales of The Macallan Volume II is a coveted treasure for whisky connoisseurs and collectors alike. Available exclusively at The Macallan Estate, select boutiques, and premium retailers, this masterpiece stands as a beacon of craftsmanship and heritage in the world of fine spirits.
Official Tasting Notes for Tales of The Macallan Volume II:
Colour: A deep bronze hue reminiscent of oak.
Scent: Abundant forest fruits mingle with sweet, aromatic wood smoke. Layers of antique oak, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla pods intertwine with herbal and leafy undertones, finishing with hints of treacle toffee.
Palate: Indulgent flavours of black cherries and plum jam lead the way, followed by notes of dark chocolate orange, almond, and custard biscuits. A subtle spiciness emerges with hints of ginger biscuit and cloves, complemented by sweet wood smoke and a touch of loose tea leaves.
Finish: The finish is enduring and intricate, leaving behind a sweet, lingering smokiness that tantalises the senses.
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.
