Kirsteen Campbell , Master Whisky Maker , The Macallan , commented : “ It was an absolute privilege to be able to reach back in time and select stock from the 1940 ' s to honour and celebrate our 200 year anniversary .
“ As a Whisky Mastery Team , our roles are unique in the sense that we get to time travel – selecting whisky from the past crafted by our predecessors , whilst simultaneously laying down casks for future generations of whisky makers and consumers . To nose , taste and select whisky created over eight decades ago is an exceptionally rare occasion in the life of a whisky maker and one which I will treasure .”
“ For the 2018 vintage , the prospect of selecting a younger cask created a lot of excitement in the sample room – it is an opportunity to give others an insight into The Macallan ’ s future . This marked the first year of production in our new Distillery , which is truly a significant moment to be cherished . Through a fusion of art and science we have ensured the continuity of the character of our whisky .”
TIME : SPACE Mastery embraces 200 years of history – a one-of-a-kind The Macallan release celebrating the craft of whisky mastery by featuring 14 exceptional cask types , creating layers of complexity with an incredible depth of aroma , texture and flavour .
“ Inspired by past masters , we have explored the full extent of our warehouses to capture the complex influences of cask seasoning , oak origin , cask size and distillery character in one incredibly special bottle of whisky - with the elegance provided by European Oak sitting at its heart .” Euan Kennedy , Lead Whisky Maker , for TIME : SPACE Mastery .
With whisky drawn from the breadth
of our exceptional inventory , there are distinct influences from European Oak sherry seasoned casks , American Oak sherry seasoned casks , American Oak Bourbon casks and the finest refill casks . Together , creating layers of complexity and a voluptuous depth in aroma , flavour and texture . This exquisite expression encompasses The Macallan ’ s whisky mastery and highlights the unwavering commitment to protecting and nurturing this craft for the future .
The whisky is housed in a crafted circular vessel representing the circle of life and the ongoing journey from the past to the future . In contrast to the subtilty of the exterior , the presentation case bursts to life with a vibrant red colour – synonymous with The Macallan - and 200 spikes , for the brand ’ s bicentennial year , represent how nature guards what is most precious and fragile . The intricate details are created using techniques stemming from the art of origami , to protect what is most valued for The Macallan , its incomparable whisky .
Jaume Ferras , Creative Director at The Macallan , said : “ The introduction of TIME : SPACE COLLECTION is an incredible way to pay respect to our 200th anniversary by celebrating the significance of those who have come before us , yet it is also a symbol of anticipation of what is to come , as we build upon our heritage and look to times ahead .”
The Macallan ’ s TIME : SPACE is available to purchase through invitation from The Macallan , with price available upon application .
The Macallan ’ s TIME : SPACE Mastery will be available to purchase from The Macallan , subject to availability and location , as well as via The Macallan Society Ballot in the UK and Europe .
TASTING NOTES TIME : SPACE
1940 VINTAGE | AGED 84 YEARS
Nose : Dark chocolate coated ginger , sticky dates and leather combine with antique oak and delicate hints of aromatic peat and ground coffee .
Palate : Charred pineapple and baked peaches lead to crystalised ginger , hints of aniseed , blackberry jam and sweet woodsmoke . Rich resinous notes linger on the palate alongside caramelised sugar .
Finish : An extremely long finish with notes of dark chocolate and toasted oak . ABV : 43.4 %
2018 VINTAGE | AGED 5 YEARS Nose : Vibrant notes of fresh green apple and ripe pears , leads onto rich sticky toffee , honey , vanilla custard and soft woodspice .
Palate : Golden sultanas and baked apples develop into buttery pastry dusted in icing sugar . Hints of lemon and lime follow , alongside vanilla shortbread . Finish : A medium finish , creamy , with sweet oak . ABV : 54.9 %
TIME : SPACE MASTERY
Nose : Sumptuous Medjool dates , sweet baked figs and rich milk chocolate accompanied by delicate hints of honey and tropical character , reminiscent of dried mango and ripe papaya . Encapsulated by complex sweet oak .
Palate : A real sweetness is evident with sherry-soaked dried fruits , orange marmalade and honeycomb . Soft spiced notes of ginger and cinnamon develop
Finish Bursts of caramelised pineapple and creamy vanilla linger with the exquisite balance of subtle dark chocolate and coffee .
THE ART OF APPRECIATION 31