Scotch whisky brand The Macallan has released A Night on Earth, The First Light, the fourth expression in its annual limited edition series. The new single malt is inspired by New Zealand’s New Year traditions and is now available globally.
This release honors the arrival of the first light of the new year in New Zealand, one of the most easterly countries in the world.
The whisky was created from a combination of sherry-seasoned American and European oak casks, complemented by American oak casks that previously held bourbon.
According to the official notes from the brand, the nose has hints of New Zealand Manuka honey. The palate is described as having notes of vibrant berry compote and toasted marshmallows, with a finish of gentle spice and mellow oak.
Russell Greig, whisky maker for The Macallan, said: “This edition of A Night on Earth is about light – its cultural symbolism and its sensory warmth. Inspired by traditions and rituals that have been handed down from generation to generation, this is a whisky designed to be gifted, shared, and enjoyed with friends and family.”
He added: “Unmistakably Scottish at its heart, this single malt acknowledges its Antipodean narrative with a finish that is sweet and fruity, with mellow spice and toasted oak.”
The A Night on Earth series collaborates with different artists each year to create unique packaging. This edition features artwork from New Zealand artist Bonnie Brown, whose illustrations depict coastal barbecues, beach bonfires, and Pōhutukawa blossoms.
“When I created this artwork, it reminded me of my family’s New Year’s Day ritual – starting the day at the beach and taking a swim in the ocean,” said Brown. “It’s a fond memory and a key part of our annual tradition. It embodies the Kiwi way of life that I grew up with, like the weekends I spent exploring different parts of New Zealand with my mum and appreciating nature to the fullest.”
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The first release in the series was A Night on Earth in Scotland, which celebrated Scottish Hogmanay traditions.
This was followed by A Night on Earth: The Journey, which paid tribute to the annual pilgrimage home to reunite with loved ones.
Most recently, the series traveled to southern Spain with A Night on Earth in Jerez de la Frontera, a region connected to The Macallan’s use of sherry-seasoned oak casks.
The whisky has a recommended retail price of US$124 (£99) and is now available online at www.themacallan.com and through select retailers.
