The Macallan Classic Cut 2019 Edition Cask 700ml

“...Ask any distillery manager his second favourite dram and as often as not the Macallan is it.” So wrote Jim Murray. It's a truism that resonates with a small group of 'Macallan chasers' who simply will not settle for less. All the better when the whisky in question is natural strength.
This is the third 'Classic Cut' we've managed to secure, part of a limited annual series celebrating Macallan's ongoing commitment to ``seek out the extraordinary.`` While the official distillery website has had these on offer, they obviously didn't produce huge volumes. It's absent from major UK retailer's websites but has popped up at auction where it's already selling for well over AU$200. Our suspicion is that it's being allocated to some markets, not others (cask strength Macallans have traditionally being US exclusives).
While the 2019 is a very recent expression, the Classic Cuts are true to 'traditional' Macallan form, being matured exclusively in handpicked oloroso sherry seasoned casks from Jerez, Spain. Even better - it's cask strength - a style that's proving increasingly popular with both Macallan loyalists and new drinkers. As with fine wines, we'd recommend giving this whisky a good 15-30 minutes to breathe and open up to show its best. Try it straight, then with a few drops of water. 52.9% Alc./Vol.