Macallan 20 Years Old Speymalt Gordon & MacPhail cask 13603611 for La Maison du Whisky 58.5% 2003

Distileerderij	Macallan
Bottelaar	Gordon & MacPhail
Serie	Speymalt
Gebotteld voor	La Maison du Whisky
Gedistilleerd op	2003
Gebotteld	2023
Land	Schotland
Streek	Speyside
Leeftijd	20
Cask Type	First-Fill Sherry Hogshead
Vatnummer	13603611
Alcohol percentage	58.5
Inhoud	0,70
Conditie	In originele verpakking
Etiket	Perfect
Voorraad	0

Professionele reviews

BOW (89)

In the world of Scotch whisky, few names resonate with as much reverence as Macallan. The Macallan 20 Years Old Speymalt, bottled by the esteemed Gordon & MacPhail exclusively for La Maison du Whisky, stands as a testament to the unrivaled legacy and craftsmanship of this iconic distillery. With a limited release of only 149 bottles, this expression, aged in a First-Fill Sherry Hogshead, is a rare and distinguished gem for connoisseurs and collectors alike.

The Distillation:
Distilled with precision and care, the Macallan 20 Years Old Speymalt represents the culmination of two decades of maturation. Macallan, renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition, has once again demonstrated its mastery in crafting exceptional single malt Scotch whiskies. The spirit's journey begins in the copper pot stills of Macallan, where the art of distillation transforms carefully selected ingredients into a liquid symphony.

Maturation in a First-Fill Sherry Hogshead:
The choice of maturation in a First-Fill Sherry Hogshead is a testament to the dedication to excellence that defines Macallan. The influence of the Sherry cask imparts a rich tapestry of flavors, with the First-Fill ensuring that the whisky absorbs the full depth of the cask's character. This particular cask, numbered 13603611, has been carefully monitored and nurtured to achieve the perfect balance between the distillate and the Sherry-infused nuances.

Limited Edition Rarity:
With only 149 bottles released for La Maison du Whisky, the Macallan 20 Years Old Speymalt is a true rarity in the world of Scotch whisky. The exclusivity of this expression adds to its desirability, making it a prized possession for those fortunate enough to secure a bottle. The meticulous cask selection and limited quantity ensure that each bottle is a unique and highly sought-after piece of Macallan's storied history.

Tasting Notes:
Upon the first sip, the Macallan 20 Years Old Speymalt envelops the palate in a symphony of rich, dried fruits, warm oak, and a subtle hint of spice. The Sherry influence is evident in the deep, amber hue and the lingering sweetness that dances on the taste buds. The 58.5% alcohol content adds a robust complexity, showcasing the depth and character that only two decades of maturation can achieve.

Conclusion:
Macallan 20 Years Old Speymalt, bottled by Gordon & MacPhail for La Maison du Whisky, is a celebration of time, tradition, and the artistry of Scotch whisky. From the meticulous distillation at Macallan to the carefully chosen First-Fill Sherry Hogshead, each element contributes to the symphony of flavors that define this exquisite expression. With its limited edition status and refined profile, the Macallan 20 Years Old Speymalt is a rare and distinguished addition to the world of fine Scotch whiskies, inviting enthusiasts to savor the elegance in every sip.

Serge Valentin (90)

Remember these are filled and fully matured by the house G&M, they don't buy aged whisky from distilleries or brokers. Rather the way 'round, in fact… Colour: bright amber. Nose: typical, complex, I suppose it was a second-fill sherry hogshead. Exceptional herbal teas and honeys, dried fruits and roasted nuts, coffees and chocolates, subtle spices and herbs… Well this one simply has what it takes, exactly where it's needed. The balance is sublime at the moment; sorry for not listing everything, we might risk blowing up a super-server somewhere in the world. With water: rather on top-notch coffee, pumpernickel, earth and beef jerky. Mouth (neat): exceptional fruitcakes and just a touch of gunpowder. I find it a tad leafier on the palate, so a little closer to the usual current officials. Rather a lot of cracked pepper, juniper, clove and cumin. With water: some prune wine, a little armagnac, bitter oranges, blood oranges, coriander seeds… Finish: long, a little mentholy, with a lot of juniper and pepper. Bitter chocolate in the aftertaste. Comments: the perfect counterpoint to the Signatory, so far yet so close. Impossible to choose between them.