Good Value That’s the spirit

Excellent release prices in Bordeaux, a promising season in Australia and a spirited performance by baijiu make James Suckling’s monthly news round-up

China’s most popular spirit, baijiu, is getting a boost as hipster bars across the US as well as in China incorporate it as a new base for highend cocktails. Bars like Lumos in New York are concocting many unusual and baijiu-based drinks with mung bean and almond milk to compete with other spirit-based beverages. At home, bars like Capital in Beijing are experimenting with baijiu cocktails as well to attract a younger generation of consumers who, unlike older generations, are exposed to a wider variety of spirits, such as whisky and cognac.

The final chapter of The Macallan in Lalique Six Pillars Collection has arrived. The final decanter, Peerless Spirit, exudes a level of refinement and craftsmanship that can only be achieved by the highest level of mastery. The spirit contained within this decanter is nothing short of extraordinary: a 65-year-old whisky; one of the oldest and rarest to be released by the distillery. The Peerless Spirit decanter brings to a close a decade-long partnership between two creators with a shared passion for craftsmanship, detail and excellence. For this release, only 450 individually numbered decanters will be available.

Peerless Spirit is a celebration of the wonderfully rich, viscous, and aromatic spirit that lies at the heart of The Macallan. The natural colour and rich flavour that are absorbed from the bespoke Spanish oak casks round up the distinctive character and quality that has made The Macallan one of the most prestigious single malt whiskies in the world.

The whisky has a medium body with hints of cracked black pepper, cloves and toasted cocoa beans. The aroma is remarkably balanced, with soothing notes of honey-dipped Madagascan vanilla pods, cinnamon and Moroccan dates.

Each of the exquisitely designed decanters in this collection draws inspiration from a design or a specific technique from the founding father of Lalique, Rene Lalique’s heritage. Marc Larminaux, Creative Director for Lalique, conceptualised this decanter design around a single peerless drop of The Macallan, symbolising its rarity.

The Six Pillars Collection has become some of the most sought-after among collectors all over the world for its beautiful design and high quality whisky. The Macallan 65 years old in Lalique: Peerless Spirit is set to continue that tradition. It is valued at US$35,000. n