The Macallan Classic Cut 2019 Edition Single Malt Whisky
The Macallan was one of the first distillers in Scotland to be legally licensed. Since then, Macallan has built a reputation as one of the world’s leading single malt whiskies. The creation of The Macallan draws on the vital contributing influences of Spain, North America and Scotland – and of their respective natural raw materials, combined with traditional methods and craftsmanship.
The Macallan distillery was founded by Alexander Reid, a barley farmer and school teacher. The original name of the area was “Maghellan”, taken from the Gaelic word “magh”, meaning fertile ground and “Ellan”, from the Monk St.Fillan – who held a close association with the church that stood in the grounds of The Macallan Estate until 1400. Farmers had been making whisky on their Speyside farms in the area for centuries, using their surplus barley during the quieter winter months.
Started in 2017, the Classic Cut is a series of annual releases which, according to the distillery, celebrates their ongoing commitment to seek out the extraordinary. We’re not entirely sure what that means, but it sounds good. The overall presentation is certainly evocative of their older cask strength releases, and the Classic Cut seems to occupy that place in the range.
This is the third release of the Classic Cut series, first introduced in 2017. The expression takes its name from the third of Macallan’s six pillars, known as the “finest cut,” in reference to their selection of only the most superior quality spirit from their stills.
Nose: Orange zest with ginger and nutmeg balanced with sultana and a hint of hazelnut.
Taste: Sweet ginger and orange zest with a gentle oak spice.
Finish: Medium sweet with a lingering honey note.
