picture perfect
The Macalan joins forces wiTh phoTographer sTeven Klein To highlighT The MosT iMporTanT ingredienT of al: TiMe
A good Scotch whisky is a symphony of age-old traditions, layers of flavors left by the perfect selection of casks ... and time. This last ingredient takes center stage in the latest edition of The Macallan Masters of Photography, as the famed distillery enlists the creative vision of American photographer Steven Klein.
The Masters of Photography: Steven Klein edition is the sixth entry in The Macallan’s award-winning Masters of Photography series, preceded by collaborations between the whisky brand with other iconic photographers including Rankin, Albert Watson, Annie Leibovitz, Elliott Erwitt and Mario Testino. Each of these has resulted in unique pairings of a limited edition whisky and stunning artworks. Naturally, the Steven Klein edition brings with it a unique perspective on the world of The Macallan titled “Time Captured.”
With time as a major theme, Klein created a short film (available at timecaptured.com) and 10 still images depicting a single moment that is slowed, stretched and ultimately distilled. The scene is a bar in Klein’s distinctive retro industrial feel. The speakeasy atmosphere of the images hints at the smoky profile of whiskies from the era, while the pinkish tone of the imagery refers to the Riojaseasoned casks used by The Macallan.
The experience is well contained in the actual whisky of the Masters of Photography: Steven Klein edition. It opens up with a note of berries and dried fruit. A nostalgic scent of oak follows next, along with caramelized ginger. Orange and a wisp of smoke round up the spirit’s bouquet. As you take a sip, the smoky sweetness of spices will first greet you, to be replaced by dark chocolate and orange zest. Then once again, a smoky aroma will permeate your senses.
This special whisky, along with a signed print by Steven Klein and an exclusive bottle stopper make up the contents of the Masters of Photography: Steven Klein edition, and are presented in a sleek black case. Whisky connoisseurs and fans of The Macallan might want to start the hunt early, though, as only 1,000 sets are made available around the world.