A Sensory Journey of Discovery

The Macallan – the internationally famed single malt whisky – has unveiled a new limited edition whisky, its Edition No. 3. The third release in the innovative Edition Series is a dynamic and highly original collaboration between the Master Whisky Maker of The Macallan, Bob Dalgarno, and globally acclaimed Master Perfumer, Roja Dove, uniting the worlds of whisky and aroma to reveal the complexities of single malt character.

Continuing the diverse story of the oak casks and obsession with wood of The Macallan, the focus has remained on the commitment introduced with Edition No. 1 and Edition No. 2 to unlock the intricate workings of the whisky-making process. Edition No. 3 exposes the detail of its creation for true transparency, and showcases the absolute skill of the Master Whisky Maker.

The Edition series of The Macallan began in 2015 with Edition No. 1, for which a unique selection of oak casks was identified to yield a new Macallan expression. The series was created to celebrate the unparalleled oak cask

management policy of The Macallan, that overseas the entire process from oak sourcing to finished, seasoned casks. The Edition No. 1 limited edition expression, launched in 2015 was matured in eight distinct European and American oak cask styles, personally selected by Dalgarno, to create a rich and truly multidimensional whisky. Last year, Edition No. 2 was released and continued the story of the diversity of The Macallan oak casks and the obsession with mastery of wood through a creative partnership between Dalgarno and the Roca brothers, cheffounders of Michelin-starred El Celler de Can Roca, twice awarded Best Restaurant in the World.

While Edition No. 1 and Edition No. 2 highlighted the influence each cask has on the taste and flavour of the final whisky, Edition No. 3 provides an insight into the distinctive aromas that combine to build character and depth and create a multisensory experience of taste and aroma.

From defining life experiences to the recall of special memories, the power of aroma is unquestionable and it is this power that makes the approach to Edition No. 3 truly mesmerizing, as Dove and Dalgarno embarked on a sensory journey of discovery.

As one of the most respected Master Perfumers in the world, whose brand Roja Parfums is at the pinnacle of the fragrance industry, Dove provided his remarkable sensory knowledge and experience to describe distinctive aromas in particular oak casks. Subsequently, Dalgarno utilised this articulation of aromas to select dominant notes to help shape the final character of Edition No. 3.

The exceptional oak casks of The Macallan are the single greatest contributor to the outstanding quality, natural colours, and distinctive aromas and flavours of The Macallan. The use of a higher proportion of smaller casks in Edition No. 3 increased the contact between the spirit and the wood, delivering an intense experience of flavour and aroma.

Crafted from a combination of European and American oak casks, Edition No. 3 balances a heavier base derived from Tevasa casks (European oak) and reflective of The Macallan character, with the fresh cut oak and citrus of Hudosa (American oak) casks, the vanilla ice cream and sweet, crisp green apple flavours of bourbon casks, and the dry, floral, and vanilla notes from European and American oak refill casks.

Dalgarno said: “Inspiration and innovation lie at the heart of The Macallan and in Edition No. 3 we have collaborated with one of the most respected aroma experts in the world to create a single malt whisky which pushes the boundaries and challenges convention. The Edition Series provides the freedom to look beyond the cask styles typically used in other Macallan whiskies. There are great parallels between the worlds of whisky and perfume and it has been fascinating to work with Roja to explore the power of aroma in individual oak casks and its influence on the resulting whisky. Edition No. 3 is a remarkable journey of the senses, delivering an intense experience of flavour and aroma.”

Dove said: “On the surface it would seem that Bob and I came from disparate worlds. From the beginning it was obvious we have much in common, which we have explored and developed in many different ways. The inevitable culmination of this collaboration was the creation of Edition No. 3. We have worked together to master the balance of taste and aroma, resulting in an incredibly flavoursome, fresh and citrus whisky with enveloping sweetness. Edition No. 3 is an exceptional example of the art of the whisky maker, where Bob has interpreted my thoughts so accurately, when combined with the extraordinary power of scent.”

With an ABV of 48.3%, Edition No. 3 is a sensory journey of flavour and aroma intimately entwined. Presenting a sweet and fruity character, it brings to the fore notes of vanilla, fresh cut oak, delicate florals, and rich fruit cake. An alluring whisky that challenges expectations and reflects the artistic genius of the collaborators who united to curate this distinctive single malt.

The Macallan Edition No. 3 will be priced from R1,850 and is available from 1 October at selected retailers nationwide.

For further information, please visit www.themacallan.com or find them on Facebook.

Tasting notes

Colour: A natural colour of Barley gold.

Aroma: Reminiscent of a fine fragrance, the nose leads with vanilla ice cream, fresh cut oak, and delicate florals. Orange oil provides subtle grandeur while ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg flit in and out. Vanilla imparts sweetness, leading citrus fruits forward, then allowing chocolate to show. Burnished oak delivers a soft ending.

Palate: A sensory journey of flavour and aroma intimately entwined, the palate is sweet fruit, vanilla, and rich fruit cake with suggestions of apricot, pear, and crisp green apple. Hints of ginger and cinnamon are balanced with a light resinous oak finale.

Finish: The finish is long, sweet, and fruity, leaving a lasting impression on the senses.

The Edition series of The Macallan began in 2015 with Edition No. 1, for which a unique selection of oak casks was identified to yield a new Macallan expression.