We’ve highlighted quite a bit of Macallan on here in recent years but this expression is a bit different. Every now and then, Macallan release something a little special that is truly considered limited. The Macallan 2018 East Elchies Black has been slowly matured in exceptional oak casks in the dark silent warehouses of the Easter Elchies House that is synonymous with the exclusive character of The Macallan. Built in 1700 from locally quarried sandstone, Easter Elchies House is a unique Scottish-styled home with crow-stepped gables and turret. Macallan pride themselves on their mastery of wood from which each cask is made and of course their spirit, something they’ve done since 1824. It is these exceptional casks that transform their rich ‘new make’ spirit into this exclusive release.
On the nose: you’ll experience an initial waft of oranges, pears and vanilla. This is followed by notes of fresh green apples, lemon zest and toffee. You’ll get a bouquet of butterscotch and the spiciness of cinnamon and cloves, followed by suggestions of aniseed. Rounding off the nose is a touch of ginger and a hint of peat. On the palate: it has a lovely milky texture and those sweet orange and zesty notes are present, followed by vanilla, marzipan and ginger stem undertones. Those spices nosed start to emerge, alongside some cardamom. Going back for more, notes of candy apple start to appear, followed by those butterscotch and toffee notes, with a hint of poached pears, liqourice and walnuts. The finish: is long, sweet, with lingering zesty notes, spices, oranges and peat.
The verdict: As you know, The Macallan as a brand are so well revered around the world and this limited edition Easter Elchies Black expression from the distillery based in Craigellachie, Speyside – is just a drop of beauty. This is a Scotch that on the nose is rather rich and complex that follows through to the palate, with extra suggestions of peat. It is a delicately balanced scotch but balanced to perfection – from nose to finish it is something to be savoured. With an ABV of 49.2%, this is probably not a Scotch that I would add any water to 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 2018 Easter Elchies Black Single Malt Scotch Whisky is available online or in well-stocked Whisky Shops, for approximately… However, as a limited edition, Macallan only released 1958 bottles worldwide and even then 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 some but with the way things are, there will no doubt be some available to buy at upcoming online whisky auctions. What will they sell for, who knows? It’s a case of supply and demand.
For more information on this limited edition 2018 Easter Elchies Black, visit the official Macallan website.
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