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Macallan celebrates pioneers with new whisky line

Edrington-owned The Macallan has released the first single malt in a new range inspired by the brand’s legacy – a whisky enclosed in a Lalique decanter and distilled in 1950.

Macallan Volume I whisky
Macallan Volume I comes in a handmade Lalique crystal decanter and is concealed in an almanac book

Tales of The Macallan Volume I, The Laird of Easter Elchies (1659-1715), is the inaugural limited edition whisky in a new collection that recounts the story behind the brand’s pioneers.

Created by lead whisky maker Sarah Burgess, the single malt was distilled in 1950 and bottled in 2021.

The new expression pays homage to Captain John Grant, who recognised the potential of the Easter Elchies Estate in 1700, when it was refurbished to become the home of The Macallan. Grant had ‘set new standards of excellence’ for the Scotch brand.

The estate had been owned by the Grant family since 1543 and was transformed by the soldier when he returned from the war. Grant ensured the land could grow barley and sustained a small farming community.

She said: “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.

“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.

“Just like The Macallan Estate and Easter Elchies House, this precious whisky echoes of a very old tale. Wood spices, sweet wood smoke and antique oak are omnipresent and make a perfect liaison with the delicate symphony of ripe fruits and spices.”

The 44.6% ABV single malt offers a nose of grapefruit zest, antique oak, vanilla, melon, wood smoke, nutmeg, ripe plum and almond. The palate provides notes of peach and apple, wood spice with ginger and hints of clove, sweet wood smoke and yuzu, followed by a finish of citrus and sweet oak.

The whisky comes in a handmade Lalique crystal decanter and is concealed in an almanac book. The book, which is made with leather and 42ct gold leaf, features Grant’s story, along with illustrations from Andrew Davidson.

Limited to 350 decanters worldwide, Tales of The Macallan Volume I has an RRP of US$80,000/£60,000/€65,000 and is available from the distillery, The Macallan Boutiques and premium off-trade retailers from August 2021.

Last month, The Macallan and luxury automotive manufacturer Bentley Motors entered into a global brand partnership.

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