The Macallan Sherry Oak 40 Years Old – 2017 Release is a rare single malt that is being hailed as the pinnacle of the Sherry Oak Range. This whisky was matured in Oloroso sherry seasoned oak casks handpicked from Spain. Making interesting use of three cask types – the European Oak Sherry Butt, a European Oak Sherry Hogshead and an American Oak Sherry Butt, a modest 465 were produced and released worldwide at the end of 2017. A number of 500 bottles was included in the 2016 40 year old release.
This extravagant elixir can be only be defined as an experience, sentiments shared by Macallan themselves. The whisky boasts a classical deep copper colour, and treats the nose to sultanas with wood spice. The experience extends to the palate, where it opens with a smooth treatment of cinnamon spices that develops into a fruit yet subtle taste of dates and figs, closing with a rich lingering of cinnamon spice. This intriguing combination of flavours have earned the whisky the label of complex, and the distillery is extremely proud of this reputation. Macallan 40 is their very own “Complex Character.” Luxury and extravagance seem to be the main characteristics of the drink.
However with a small 465 bottles only being produced, demand sky rocketed and with this dram being so exclusive; the global demand was so great that it couldn’t be sold on shelves, or even at the distillery! This gave Macallan no other choice but to hold a ballot, simply to give worldwide players a chance to own the prestigious offering. Macallan famously invited whisky lovers to enter a ballot to purchase the malt, for sale at a cool £6250. The ballot took place in February of 2018 and those successful enough to have claimed top prize, could now add an extremely collectable piece to their collection.
Coupled with a stunning wooden presentation box, this piece will be sought after by collectors and connoisseurs worldwide! To hammer home the whisky’s exclusivity, each bottle comes individually numbered. Those with a keen eye will notice the wax melted insignia and ribbon attached to label that wraps round the bottle. A luxurious golden outline accompanies the text on each label which is complimented when faced in the appropriate lighting. The white and gold colour scheme goes nicely with the drink, as not only does it remind the consumer of its extravagance, it allows it to confidently to stand out in any collection or venue.
The Rare Whisky Shop has been lucky enough to stock a bottle of the Macallan 40 2017 and also the acclaimed 2016 release so if you’re considering buying this unique bottle, please get in touch. To view other rare Macallan’s click here.
