Macallan debuts Cirque du Soleil-inspired whiskies

Edrington-owned The Macallan has partnered with Cirque du Soleil for the launch of two editions in its annual Harmony Collection.

Celebrating The Macallan’s 200th anniversary, the distillery has revealed two expressions: Harmony Vibrant Oak, and Harmony Guardian Oak, both of which are said to reflect the brand’s expertise and mastery of wood. The Harmony Vibrant Oak expression has been matured in a combination of first-fill American and second-fill Sherry-seasoned oak casks, while Guardian Oak has been matured predominantly in a combination of first-fill European and second-fill Sherry-seasoned oak casks. Through the two whiskies, the key differences between wood types are showcased, as well as how the oak and its origins play an important role in creating different flavours. Bottled at 44.2% ABV, Vibrant Oak offers key notes of vanilla, lime, sweet oak, apple, toasted almonds, with intense vanilla bean accompanied by sweet sherbet and lime zest on the nose, and lingering vanilla on the finish. Meanwhile the Guardian Oak, also bottled at 44.2% ABV, delivers key flavours of dates, orange, rich oak, raisins and baking spices; a sticky ginger syrup sweetness and a burst of orange leads to opulent glazed dates on the palate, while hints of warming nutmeg and dark chocolate can be found on the nose. Diane Stuart, whisky maker at The Macallan, said: “Vibrant Oak and Guardian Oak provided an opportunity to select the casks that deliver the classic characteristics of our two key wood types, Sherry-seasoned American oak and Sherry-seasoned European oak casks, showcasing the differences these wood types deliver.” The release marks the fourth edition in the series, which celebrates The Macallan’s rich history with oak. The brand’s ‘exceptional’ Sherry-seasoned oak casks are heralded as the ‘greatest contributor’ to the quality, distinctive aromas, and flavours of The Macallan's whisky, with each cask crafted to precise specifications via a process that takes approximately five years. Up to 80% of the whisky's flavour is subsequently believed to come from the casks it uses. Last month, the brand secured its fourth Sherry cask partnership in a bid to ensure a sustainable supply of the highest quality European oak casks. The Macallan previously partnered with Stella and Mary McCartney on two addition to its Harmony range. Packaging The Macallan Harmony Collection is a limited annual release series that embraces the reuse of organic materials in its packaging. For this edition of the Harmony Collection, oak chippings – a by-product created while making oak casks for The Macallan – were repurposed and used in the presentation box and the bottle labels. Stuart said: “Oak plays such an important role in the colour and flavour of The Macallan and bringing it to life through our packaging is incredibly inspirational." The releases are linked to The Macallan’s collaboration with Cirque du Soleil, which began with the debut of Spirit, a nature-inspired experience that premiered earlier this year at The Macallan Estate in Speyside. The outer pack for Harmony Collection Vibrant Oak has been designed with a lively and energetic gold colour and an illustration of a character from Spirit – Ayla – is intricately intertwined with the branches of an American oak tree. The tree represents the whisky maturing in Sherry-seasoned American oak casks and the design incorporates peacock feathers, highlighting The Macallan's natural colour. On the Harmony Collection Guardian Oak pack, an illustration of Davonna – another key figure from Spirit – is featured within the branches of a European oak tree, with the latter symbolising the whisky maturing in Sherry-seasoned European oak casks. The colours represent Davonna’s character, engrained with vibrant purples hues, symbolising wisdom and maturity. Both designs aim to capture the importance of the connection between the natural world and human experience, with 'the life and wonder that blooms when humans are in harmony with nature’. The Harmony Collection Vibrant Oak will be available to purchase from 1 November from The Macallan, subject to availability and location, as well as select retailers including Berry Bros & Rudd, Selfridges, The Whisky Exchange, The Whisky Shop and Master of Malt. The Harmony Collection Guardian Oak will be sold exclusively in global travel retail from January 2025. It available from The Macallan Global Boutiques, in key airports, and selected duty free locations around the world. There will be limited availability worldwide.