Macallan Speymalt 2001 - 2022 Single Cask #5110

The Macallan Speymalt 2001 - 2022 Single Cask #5110 is a special whisky, part of Gordon & MacPhail's Speymalt series. This independent bottler is known for its expertise in selecting and maturing top-quality whiskies, including special bottlings from the Macallan distillery. Gordon & MacPhail often provide a unique take on distilleries like Macallan by using their own casks and maturation techniques, creating whiskies that sometimes differ from regular distillery bottlings.

Tasting note

Nose

The nose is deep and inviting, with rich notes of dark fruits such as plums, figs, and sultanas. Added to this are hints of dark chocolate, toasted almonds and a hint of orange peel. As the whisky gains air, subtle notes of leather and tobacco emerge, accompanied by warm spices such as cinnamon and cloves. There is also a slight floral undertone that provides a fine balance.

Taste

On the palate, this whisky is full and complex, with a silky texture that fills the mouth completely. The first flavours are intense and sweet, with clear influences of Oloroso sherry, such as date syrup, toffee, and a hint of butterscotch. The mid-palate reveals deeper wood influences, with flavours of toasted oak, tobacco and a slight bitter chocolate note that contrasts nicely with the sweeter fruity accents. There is a spicy glow of nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of black pepper that makes for a warm, layered flavour experience.

Finish

The finish is long and intense, with the sweet sherry influences lingering for a long time, along with notes of dark chocolate, dried orange peel and a hint of ginger. The woody tannins impart a pleasant dryness, giving the finish a balanced and elegant feel. As the finish fades, a gentle warmth remains with notes of clove and a hint of liquorice.

Macallan Distillery

Macallan Distillery is located in the beautiful Speyside region, near Craigellachie in Moray. Founded in 1824 by Alexander Reid, Macallan has developed into one of the most prestigious names in the world of Scotch whisky. The distillery is located on a picturesque 390-acre estate, overlooking the River Spey.

A unique feature of Macallan is its use of exceptional quality oak casks for maturation, including ex-sherry casks of European and American oak. These casks give Macallan whiskies their characteristic rich, full flavour profiles with notes of dried fruit, herbs, chocolate, vanilla and a spice. Macallan is also known for its wide range of limited editions, appreciated by enthusiasts worldwide.

The distillery opened a state-of-the-art production facility in 2018, combining modern techniques with traditional craftsmanship. The combination of a beautiful location, high-quality casks and a commitment to quality makes Macallan a leading name in the world of Scotch single malt whisky.

Gordon & MacPhail

Gordon & MacPhail is one of the most respected and influential independent bottlers in the whisky world. With a history dating back to 1895 and a commitment to quality, craftsmanship and innovation, the company has played a key role in the development and popularisation of single malt whisky. Their extensive portfolio, ranging from rare old whiskies to unique expressions from well-known distilleries, makes Gordon & MacPhail a favourite among whisky collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

History

Gordon & MacPhail was founded in 1895 by James Gordon and John Alexander MacPhail. It began as a grocery shop in Elgin, selling a wide range of products, including tea, coffee, wine, and spirits. Soon the company focused on whisky, starting by bottling single malts, and one of Gordon & MacPhail's most important contributions to the whisky industry was their vision of maturing whiskies over long periods of time. While many distilleries focused on producing whisky for blends, Gordon & MacPhail saw the potential of single malts and began storing whiskies in their own casks for long-term maturation.