Scotch

Whisky Review: Macallan 10 Year Old 1990s

This 10 Year Old bottling was a popular entry-level expression for many years, before being discontinued in 2013.

OVERALL RATING

8
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Tasting Notes

About:

The Macallan has built a worldwide reputation as one of the leading, and most collectable, malt distilleries. This 10 Year Old bottling was a popular entry-level expression for many years, before being discontinued in 2013.
Appearance:
Burnt Orange Amber
Nose:
Orange marmalade spread across buttery toast, alongside a hint of honey sweetness. Gives way to fruity, creamy notes reminiscent of strawberry ice cream.
Palate:
Initially, a slightly tart fruitiness, strawberries and raspberries, which becomes sweeter until it becomes like drinking strawberry blancmange. This sweetness suddenly dissipates into a spicy note, holding on the tongue for one second per year of age revealing ginger, clove, and cinnamon. There’s a sherry influence, but not overpowering compared to some modern drams.
Finish:
Initial hint of butter on malted bread quickly dissipates to give a long drying finish with an oaky vanilla note.
Comments:
Much of my Macallan experience has been limited to recent modern expressions, such as the 12 Year Old Double Cask or Sherry Cask, which I’ve found very underwhelming, and seem dominated by an artificial sweetness. This vintage 10 Year Old bottling isn’t overwhelmed by sherry influence or sweetness, and I get some very pleasant strawberry fruit notes I’ve not encountered in other Macallan’s – personally I prefer this to recent examples. An easy drinking dram – you could find the bottle drains quickly!

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Mark Bostock

Mark Bostock, an integral part of the Mark Littler LTD UK content writing team since 2019, brings a genuine passion for whisky, especially independent bottlings, to his work. His commitment to expanding his knowledge through attending tasting events and building his own collection enriches his contributions, blending expertise with enthusiasm.

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