The Macallan has introduced The Macallan Rare Cask, a rich ruby-red Scotch whisky crafted only from rare, handpicked, Spanish oak sherry seasoned casks. Taking inspiration from The Macallan’s iconic triangle and intended to showcase the whisky’s natural color, Rare Cask comes in a sculpted, heavy glass decanter reflecting the peerless spirit that defines The Macallan.
Rare Cask celebrates three of The Macallan’s greatest prides: exceptional sherry-seasoned oak casks, rich flavor and beautiful natural color. The interaction of spirit and wood alone delivers the range of vibrant natural colors and flavor complexities that distinguish The Macallan whiskies.
The Macallan’s Master of Wood, Stuart MacPherson, says: “Wood sits at the very heart of what we do at The Macallan, and Rare Cask further demonstrates the vital role of our casks in the production of our superb whiskies. Our commitment to sherry seasoned oak casks is unquestionable and Rare Cask showcases The Macallan at its very best.”
The Macallan Rare Cask’s journey from acorn to bottle begins in the ancient oak forests of northern Spain. From this tannin-rich Spanish oak, the staves are hand-fashioned in the province of Cadiz and the casks are hand-crafted and toasted by the Tevasa cooperage in Jerez. The Macallan’s casks are seasoned with dry oloroso sherry for eighteen months, before being emptied and shipped whole to Scotland to be filled with fresh whisky.
The fact that Rare Cask has been crafted from only handpicked, Spanish oak sherry seasoned casks, reflects The Macallan’s commitment to sourcing the industry’s finest, most expensive and exclusive casks. The quality of the exceptional oak casks is the single greatest contributor to the outstanding quality, natural colors and distinctive aromas and flavors of The Macallan.
The Macallan’s Master Whisky Maker, Bob Dalgarno, uses his in-depth knowledge of the thousands of casks maturing at The Macallan Distillery to distinguish the chosen few that can deliver Rare Cask’s intensity of character. Great skill is required by the Whisky Maker to achieve consistency of natural color from bottling to bottling – which in the case of Rare Cask is a stunning, ruby-red hue.
Comes with a suggested retail price of $300.
Here are the tasting notes from the distiller:
Color: Ruby Red.
Aroma: Opulent, soft and meandering. Picture an orchestra setting up: deep notes of quiet vanilla, already in tune. Bold and booming raisin, yet only in spells. Chocolate a star performer, although not a standout. Apple, lemon and orange, a sweet ensemble beautifully balanced with a spicy quartet of root ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove. Oak conducts, mature and elegant.
Palate: Spices lead loud and full, tempered by raisin. Timeless, polished, rich and resonating oak takes control, as vanilla and chocolate compliment each other in the background, ending with a light citrus zest.
Finish: Full and warming.