Macallan Rare Cask Black

Macallan Rare Cask Black, NAS, 48 %

In October 2015 Macallan released the Macallan Rare Cask Black, a travel retail only addition to their 1824 Masters Series. Other whiskies in this range are the Rare Cask, Reflexion, No. 6 and M.

There are a couple of things I love about this release. First off it is bottled at 48% ABV. Second, it is peated. Yes, a peated Macallan! That is pretty special. According to what I have been told most of the whisky that goes into this product was distilled in 1980, and was made from peated malt (at around 10 ppm). The vatting consists of less than 100 casks in all, and this is a one off. There will be no further batches.

It is made from sherry matured spirit only, and most of it 1st fill ex-sherry casks. I am told all (or most) the casks were European oak.

The Macallan Rare Cask Black has an RRP of USD 450, and it is available to buy at “selected airports”.

Nose (23/25): I do detect soft peat notes right away. It has a rich and full sherry nose. Dried fruit, and medium sweetness. Delicate and soft all around. The peat works very well with the sherry here.

Taste (23/25): Soft and warm at first, then more spicy - peppery. Soft ashes. A bit malty, a bit nutty. The spicy touch here reminds me of the Macallan Reflexion.

Finish (22/25): Long finish. I find aniseed, dried fruits, and soft hints of peat.

Balance (23/25): All in all very soft, and that is certainly meant as a compliment here. The peat is not very obvious, but it is there, and it adds an exciting new dimension to the Macallan. I really loved this dram.

Score (91/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas