Macallan limited editions are sort of becoming de rigueur, however, this isn’t just any old limited release: This is an expression from the the coveted Folio range. The Folio 6 expression is a release in a 24 part series that celebrates and revisits The Macallan’s original print, press and film advertising campaign; mapping the story of The Macallan from a remote farmstead on the River Spey to a whisky that is enjoyed around the world. Folio 6 features the character of The Chairman. He is dressed as a Scotsman dancing the Highland fling over a pen and brush which were the symbols of the distilleries publicity advisers Holmes and Salaman. The Macallan Chairman, Allan Shiach, would occasionally suggest ideas to the team and the two departments would often clash. Shiach’s addition of The Chairman character was a polite reminder to his publicity advisers that he would always have the final say.
On the nose: you’ll experience an initial waft of oranges, dried mixed fruits (raisins) and vanilla. After a couple of swirls notes of maple syrup and poached pears starts to emerge with a hint of brown sugar, ginger stem and some tropical notes. A few spicy notes start to appear alongside, cinnamon and white pepper. Completing the nose are notes of candy sticks, lemongrass, toasted barley and a hint of milk chocolate. On the palate: those sweet oranges notes are present, followed by vanilla, maple syrup and those dried fruit notes. Those spices nosed start to emerge, alongside some cinnamon, white pepper and ginger. Tasting it again, notes of lemongrass start to appear, followed by some tropical notes, marzipan, with a hint of chocolate and butterscotch. Rounding-off the palate are notes of oatmeal, a hint of mint, creme brûlée, some floral notes and parma violets. The finish: is long, sweet, with lingering mixed dried fruits, spices, herbs and ginger.
The verdict: As you know, The Macallan as a brand are so well revered around the world and this limited edition series from the Speyside based distillery – is just a drop of liquid gold. This is a Scotch that on the nose is rather rich and complex that follows through to the palate, with suggestions of some really mature whisky floating around in there. It is a delicately balanced scotch but balanced to perfection – from nose to finish it is something to be savoured. With an ABV of 43%, this is probably not a Scotch that I would add any water to, in all honesty, but if you feel the need then only add in small quantities until it just right for you.
Ordinarily, this is the part where I say; The Macallan Folio 6 Single Malt Scotch Whisky is available online or in well-stocked Whisky Shops, for approximately… However, as a it is a limited edition, Macallan only made it available from their own online shop and what’s more you had to be selected to buy one. Luckily for us, we managed to get our hands on one but there will no doubt be some available to buy at upcoming online whisky auctions, or perhaps on your international travels..? For more information on this Folio 6 expression, visit the official Macallan website.
