The Macallan Edition No. 3 Explores the Art of Aroma

The Macallan distillery, over the last few years, has been releasing different bottlings tied to its non-age statement Edition series. The first two explored different aspects of wood as curated by folks inside and outside of their operations, and now the recently unveiled Edition No. 3 ventures into looking at aromatic qualities of various casks.

The Macallan Edition No. 3, according to those behind it, was put together well known perfumer Roja Dove. He nosed a range of whisky samples, providing his insights and thoughts into the character and aromas he experienced. From there, the distillery’s Master Whisky Maker Bob Dalgarno took Dove’s information to select dominant notes to help shape the final character of the Scotch.

This particular whisky is drawn from a combination of European and American oak casks, resulting in a 48.3% ABV expression that is barley gold in color. Approximately 250,000 bottles of The Macallan Edition No. 3 will be available in all global markets for $95. You’ll find official tasting notes for it at the end of this article.

“Inspiration and innovation lie at the heart of The Macallan and in Edition No. 3 we have collaborated with one of the world’s most respected aroma experts to create a single malt whisky which pushes the boundaries and challenges convention,” said Dalgarno in a prepared statement. “There are great parallels between the worlds of whisky and perfume and it has been fascinating to work with Roja to explore the power of aroma in individual oak casks and its influence on the resulting whisky.”

Nose: Reminiscent of a fine fragrance, the nose leads with vanilla ice cream, fresh cut oak and delicate florals. Orange oil provides subtle grandeur while ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg flit in and out in various guises. Vanilla imparts sweetness, leading citrus fruits forward then allowing chocolate to show. Burnished oak delivers a soft ending.

Palate: Sweet fruit, vanilla and rich fruit cake with suggestions of apricot, pear and crisp green apple. Hints of ginger and cinnamon are balanced with a light resinous oak finale.

Finish: Long, sweet and fruity, leaving a lasting impression on the senses.