THE MACALLAN HARMONY VIBRANT OAK
LIMITED EDITION SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY
SPEYSIDE, SCOTLAND
Why Buy: The Macallan marks its bicentennial with yet another show-stopping collectible: Vibrant Oak, the fourth act in the acclaimed Harmony Collection, celebrating the very essence of The Macallan — its oak casks — from the first-fill sherry-seasoned American oak barrels to the wood-based packaging and labels. But The Macallan hasn’t stopped there, and has brought a touch of magic to its celebration of whisky and wood. Literal magic. This new release was crafted in collaboration with the famed Cirque du Soleil, and though you won’t be tempted to swing from the ceiling, there’s something undeniably kinetic and spirited in this unlikely but inspired combination, as heritage, artistry, and boundary-crossing craftsmanship all come together in one remarkable bottle.
Our Tasting Notes: Vibrant Oak opens with a flourish worthy of its namesake. The nose is an intricate performance of aromas: vanilla and citrus take center stage, supported by an ensemble of toasted oak and dried fruits. As you sip, the palate unfolds like a well-choreographed act. Layers of dark chocolate and caramel pirouette with fresh citrus notes, while a gentle spice provides a steady backbeat. The finish is a grand finale – warm and lingering, with those wood spices taking a final bow and just a hint of sweetness slipping in to round things off beautifully.
The Story: Imagine it: the year is 1824, and the Scottish Highlands are alive with the sound of illicit stills. But one man, Alexander Reid, decides to do things differently. He establishes The Macallan on a plateau above the River Spey. Little does he know, he's just lit the fuse on what will become a whisky revolution. Fast forward to World War II. The Macallan's stills fall silent, the distillery repurposed to house Italian prisoners of war. But like a phoenix from the ashes, not long after it roars back to life. The smoke from the kilns once again wafts over the Speyside hills, a defiant signal that great whisky will always prevail. And oh does it ever. In the 60s, The Macallan cements its name as a brand apart and above, and double downs on sherry cask maturation, a bold move that sets the stage for the past six decades, as The Macallan grows into its status as a living legend that refuses to be content with its vast success, and continues to innovate. Take the 2018 launch of a new distillery, for instance — a £140 million marvel that is half spaceship, half whisky cathedral, and 100% awesome. From a tiny farm distillery to a forward-thinking global icon: what a long strange trip it’s been. And one can only imagine what the next 200 years bring.
ABV: 44.2% (88.4 proof)
How to Drink It: Vibrant Oak deserves thoughtful appreciation. Enjoy it neat to fully experience its complex bouquet. For those who prefer to open up their whisky, a few drops of spring water can unlock additional layers of flavor. However you choose to savor it, take your time – this is a whisky that rewards going slowly.
Fun Fact: About that dazzling distillery: its undulating, grass-covered roof mimics the surrounding hills so perfectly that local sheep have been known to wander up for a nibble!
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source direct, so rest assured – your whisky will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure yours now!