Tales of the Macallan Vol II launches in GTR
The Macallan has unveiled the second release in a series of rare single malt Scotch whiskies that tells the story of its whisky-making legacy.
Following the initial Tales of the Macallan release in 2021, the second edition in the series is a homage to Alexander Reid, founder of The Macallan, and depicts him as a teacher, farmer and distiller, on his journey to ‘ultimate mastery’. The launch comes as The Macallan marks its 200th anniversary year, and is described as a fitting tribute that encapsulates Reid’s story and the standards of excellence in craftsmanship he instilled. Crafted by The Macallan's lead whisky maker, Euan Kennedy, Tales of the Macallan Vol II is a 1949 vintage whisky, bottled in 2022, that was selected at the ‘apex of its maturation’. The whisky is encased in a bespoke handcrafted Lalique crystal decanter, which is concealed within an almanac, in which each chapter tells the story of The Macallan’s founder and features illustrations by renowned British illustrator, Andrew Davidson. The whisky rests at 44.8% ABV, and offers rich forest fruits, sweet aromatic woodsmoke, antique oak, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla pods on the nose, while black cherries, plum jam, dark chocolate orange, and almond and custard pastry can be detected on the palate. The long and complex finish is peppered with a sweet lingering smokiness. Kennedy said: “Tales of The Macallan Volume II is a tribute to our founder Alexander Reid, whose commitment to quality and craftsmanship established the pursuit of uncompromised excellence that has continued to guide successive generations of The Macallan’s whisky makers, like myself, to this day. “Displaying beautiful tones of bronzed oak, and subtle red hues that reflect the original meaning of Alexander Reid’s surname in Scots – The Red One – this rare and unique single malt whisky possesses an incredible complexity achieved through age and patient maturation. Enjoying a lingering smokiness redolent of whiskies of Alexander’s time, it is a fitting tribute to his living legacy as we celebrate our 200th anniversary year.” The Tales of The Macallan Volume II is a limited release of 344 decanters, available exclusively in The Macallan Boutiques across global travel retail. Jeremy Speirs, Edrington regional managing director – global travel retail, commented: “In our 200th year this launch marks a fitting tribute to The Macallan’s founder, while strengthening our reputation as a leading light in luxury spirits. We are looking forward to introducing this stunning whisky to shoppers in select travel retail locations, and are confident it will prove a real draw for collectors and enthusiasts who actively seek out The Macallan in this channel.” Tales of The Macallan Volume II is available now for RRP US$89,000/£77,391/€89,000.
