THE MACALLAN TIME : SPACE MASTERY

 SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY


SPEYSIDE, SCOTLAND


 

Why Buy: The Macallan. The name alone evokes reverence among connoisseurs of great whisky. Now, in celebration of its 200th year, this legendary distillery presents TIME : SPACE Mastery – a one-of-a-kind bottling, never again to be replicated, that commemorates two centuries of unparalleled whisky-making through an intricate fusion of oak origins, cooperages, and cask types. Fourteen meticulously selected casks – from the finest European and American oak seasoned with sherry to bourbon-kissed American oak – converge to create a spirit that transcends time and space.
 

Our Tasting Notes: TIME : SPACE Mastery unfolds in chapters, like a captivating story with twists and turns. The nose is expressive, and deep, with strong hints of Medjool dates and baked figs announcing themselves from the start, followed in turn by rich milk chocolate and honey. As the latter aromas fade, along come hints of dried mango and ripe papaya to add tropical intrigue. The palate deepens these initial impressions, and you’re carried forth by sherry-kissed dried fruits, zesty orange marmalade, and golden honeycomb, while an array of gentle spices – most notably, ginger and cinnamon – provide a warming embrace . The finish is a grand finale: bursts of caramelized pineapple and velvety vanilla linger, beautifully balanced by notes of dark chocolate and freshly brewed coffee.
 

The Story: Nestled in the rolling, picture-perfect hills of Speyside, Scotland, Macallan has cultivated a reputation for uncompromising quality and innovation that has stood for two centuries — in spite of wars, economic upheaval, social transformation, and, not least, changing tastes. Founded in 1824 by Alexander Reid, a barley farmer and school teacher, Macallan began its journey during the tumultuous period following the Excise Act of 1823, which legitimized whisky distillation in Scotland. The distillery's name itself is steeped in history, deriving from the Gaelic "magh," meaning fertile ground, and “Ellan," referring to St. Fillan, an Irish-born monk who pushed for the spread of Christianity in Scotland in the eighth century. Throughout its storied past, Macallan has weathered significant challenges. During World War II, the distillery was forced to close for four years, reopening in 1945 to face grain shortages and rationing. Yet, Macallan persevered, emerging stronger and more determined to maintain its commitment to quality. A pivotal moment for the brand came in 1960, when Macallan made the bold decision to focus primarily on sherry cask maturation — a move that would define its distinctive character for decades to come. In 2016, the company went all in, establishing its own cooperage in Jerez, Spain, and ensuring complete control over the production of their sherry-seasoned oak casks — a move that, as this wonderful commemorative release shows, has paid (and will continue to pay) handsome dividends.
 

The Specs: TIME : SPACE Mastery showcases The Macallan's mastery of wood. The final blend incorporates spirit from: European oak casks seasoned with sherry, which imparts richness and dried fruit notes; American oak casks seasoned with sherry, which contributes roundness and subtle sweetness; American oak casks previously holding bourbon, which adds layers of vanilla and spice.
 

ABV: 43.6% (87.2 proof)
 

Fun Fact: The whisky is presented in a bespoke, circular decanter – a nod to the ceaseless passage of time. But the decanter isn't just aesthetically pleasing – it's a philosophical statement. In many cultures, the circle represents eternity and the cyclical nature of time, perfectly aligning with The Macallan's two centuries of whisky-making tradition. In addition, the accompanying presentation box features 200 spikes, inspired by traditional origami techniques, one for each year of existence.
 

Our Guarantee: We always buy and source directly from the distiller, so rest assured – your whisky will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure your piece of The Macallan's history today!

 

*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2024 (Dec 21, 2024 - Mar 20, 2025). All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer only valid in AZ, CA, FL, MA, MO, NJ, NV, & TX. This offer will expire on Wednesday, October 2, 2024.