The Macallan Classic Cut 2021 Edition

The Macallan Classic Cut 2021 Edition is an annual limited release from The Macallan in Craigellachie, Speyside — bottled at higher than standard strength to showcase the distillery’s sherry cask character without the dilution of a fixed-proof release. Each year’s Classic Cut is matured in a different combination of sherry-seasoned American and European oak, producing a distinct profile from previous editions. The 2021 is bottled at 51.2% ABV.

The Classic Cut series was introduced in 2017 specifically to offer collectors a higher-proof Macallan outside the standard Double Cask and Sherry Oak ranges. The combination of American oak (which contributes vanilla and coconut) and European oak (which contributes darker dried fruit and spice) in sherry-seasoned casks is the foundation of Macallan’s house style. At 51.2%, the 2021 delivers more concentrated sherry fruit intensity than the 40–43% standard releases, with the alcohol serving as a vehicle for the oak complexity rather than masking it.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Sherry-forward — raisins, dried orange peel, vanilla, and dark chocolate. Palate: Rich and warming at 51.2% — concentrated sherry fruit, toffee, cinnamon, and toasted oak. Finish: Long, drying, and spiced with persistent sherry notes.

Specs

Distillery: The Macallan, Craigellachie, Speyside, Scotland — Casks: Sherry-seasoned American and European oak — ABV: 51.2% — Edition: 2021 — Size: 750ml

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