The Macallan, the renowned single Malt Scotch whisky, has unveiled the latest in the Harmony Collection, with two new whisky releases as part of the brand’s unique collaboration with Cirque du Soleil.
The Macallan Harmony Collection is a limited annual release series that embraces the re-use of organic materials in its packaging, creating beauty from materials at the end of their natural lives. Celebrating The Macallan’s 200 Year Anniversary, Harmony Vibrant Oak (available now in Canadian retail) and Harmony Guardian Oak (exclusively available in global travel retail, excluding Canada) reflect the brand’s expertise and mastery of wood.
The fourth edition in the series celebrates The Macallan’s rich history with oak, which runs through every facet of the single malt Scotch whisky. The Macallan’s exceptional sherry seasoned oak casks are the single greatest contributor to the outstanding quality, distinctive aromas and flavours. Each cask is crafted to precise specifications, a process that takes around five years, delivering up to 80 percent of the flavour and 100 percent of the natural colour.
Vibrant Oak is crafted from a blend of first-fill American oak and second-fill sherry-seasoned oak casks, while Guardian Oak is predominantly matured in first-fill European oak and second-fill sherry-seasoned oak casks. These two exceptional whiskies highlight the distinct characteristics of different wood types, and demonstrate how the origin and nature of oak significantly influence flavour.
This edition of the Harmony Collection incorporates sustainability by repurposing oak chippings – by-products from crafting The Macallan’s oak casks – into the presentation box and bottle labels.
“Oak plays such an important role in the colour and flavour of The Macallan and bringing it to life through our packaging is incredibly inspirational,” says Diane Stuart, Whisky Maker, The Macallan. “Vibrant Oak and Guardian Oak gave us the opportunity to carefully select casks that embody the classic characteristics of our two key wood types, sherry-seasoned American oak and sherry-seasoned European oak casks, showcasing the unique flavours each brings.”
The releases are tied to The Macallan’s collaboration with Cirque du Soleil, which began with the debut of SPIRIT, an extraordinary, nature-inspired experience that premiered earlier this year at The Macallan Estate in Speyside.
Highlighting the importance of the connection to nature for The Macallan in an imaginative, visual and innovative way, SPIRIT told the story of The Macallan’s rich history, Scottish culture and the Highlands. Culminating in an audience experience around an oak tree, the experience combined The Macallan’s craftsmanship with Cirque du Soleil’s world-renowned artistic innovation.
The outer packaging for Harmony Collection Vibrant Oak features a lively gold design, with a striking illustration of Ayla, a character from SPIRIT, intricately intertwined with the branches of an American oak tree. The tree symbolizes the whisky’s maturation in sherry-seasoned American oak casks, while peacock feathers incorporated into the design highlight The Macallan’s commitment to natural colour.
For the Harmony Collection Guardian Oak, the packaging showcases Davonna, another key figure from SPIRIT, depicted within the branches of a European oak tree. This tree represents the whisky’s maturation in sherry-seasoned European oak casks. The design is enhanced by vibrant purple hues, reflecting Davonna’s character, and symbolizing wisdom and maturity.
Both designs capture the importance of the connection between the natural world and human experience, with the life and wonder that blooms when humans are “in harmony with nature.”
The three previous Harmony Collection releases showcased unique collaborations: the first celebrated The Macallan’s long-standing partnership with Spain’s Roca brothers, blending the flavours of chocolate and whisky; the second took whisky lovers on a sensorial journey through the world of coffee, guided by the expertise of five specialists; and the third partnered with Stella and Mary McCartney to honour Scotland’s landscapes.
The Harmony Collection Vibrant Oak (RRSP $400 CAD) will be available for purchase in Canada from select retailers in Quebec, Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta (release timing will vary by province), as well as directly from The Macallan, subject to availability and location.
TASTING NOTES
Harmony Vibrant Oak
Nose: Intense vanilla bean accompanied by sweet sherbet and lime zest gives way to fragrant pears nestled in delicate vanilla sponge cake.
Palate: Creamy vanilla panna cotta, buttery shortbread, lightly toasted coconut with almond brittle, apple and sweet oak.
Finish: Medium, sweet with lingering vanilla.
Colour: Autumnal leaf.
Five Key Descriptors: Vanilla. Lime. Sweet Oak. Apple. Toasted Almonds.
ABV: 44.2%
Harmony Guardian Oak
Nose: Rich dried fruits of dates, figs and raisins mingle with orange peel, dark chocolate and hints of warming nutmeg.
Palate: Sticky ginger syrup sweetness and a burst of orange lead to opulent glazed dates, cherries and plump sultanas alongside rich oak and sweet spices.
Finish: Long and rich with oak and star anise.
Colour: Mature acorn.
Five Key Descriptors: Dates. Orange. Rich Oak. Raisins. Baking Spices.
ABV: 44.2%
