Search
Close this search box.

71 Year Old Scotch Leads Off New High End The Macallan Whisky Series

The Macallan Scotch single malt brand recently unveiled “Tales of The Macallan Volume I,” a very well aged spirit that is the first limited edition whisky in a new series.

The series tells the story of The Macallan pioneers and their whisky-making legacy. Volume One focuses on The Laird of Easter Elchies (1659 – 1715), and is an homage to Captain John Grant who, in 1700, realized the potential of Easter Elchies Estate, the site of the distillery since 1824.

John Grant was born in 1659 in a remote location on the banks of the River Spey. After a military career in his youth, he became captain and fought in the war. The Grants owned the land for nearly a century, but John Grant transformed the landscape into the birthplace of The Macallan.

Tales of The Macallan Volume I
Tales of The Macallan Volume I (image via The Macallan)

 

The Macallan Volume I is crafted by Lead Whisky Maker Sarah Burgess. It was distilled in 1950 and bottled in 2021 – thus being aged 71 years – and is described by the brand as a distinctive, rare expression with exceptional flavor and character.

“Tales of The Macallan tells of remarkable individuals and an exceptional spirit. Each of these people left their mark on The Macallan with their unique contribution and legacy alive in our brand’s DNA and in every drop of our whisky to this day,” Burgess said in a prepared statement. “Tales of The Macallan Volume I is a tribute to Captain John Grant, who paved the way for The Macallan and brought the influence of nature and community spirit. As custodians of the Estate, we are continuously inspired by our environment, upholding our responsibility to nurture and protect the wonderful natural habitat that is home to our distillery.”

The single malt is encased in a handcrafted Lalique crystal decanter inside an almanac book. Each chapter tells the story of John Grant and includes illustrations from Andrew Davidson. 

The London-based bookbinders Shepherds, Sangorski & Sutcliffe and Zaehnsdorf hand-crafted the book using leather and 24ct gold leaf to conceal the decanter. Artisan printer, Imprimerie du Marais in Paris, expertly printed each individual page.

Limited to 350 decanters worldwide, Tales of The Macallan Volume I has an RRSP of $80,000 / £60,000 / €65,000 and will be available at The Macallan Estate, The Macallan Boutiques and premium off-trade retailers now.

Official tasting notes are below.

  • Colour: Golden Aiguillette
  • ABV: 44.6%
  • Nose: Grapefruit zest, antique oak, vanilla, melon, wood smoke, nutmeg, ripe plum and almond.
  • Palate: Peach and apple, wood spice with ginger and hints of clove, sweet wood smoke and Yuzu.
  • Finish: A medium finish with citrus and sweet oak.
Search
  • Latest News
  • Latest Reviews