The Macallan unveils rare Second World War era whisky
THE Macallan has unveiled a 'highly limited' Second World War era single malt whisky.
At 81 years old, the whisky dubbed 'The Reach', is the oldest ever to be released by the Speyside based distillery.
It was crafted in 1940 during a period of increasing hardship and was 'laid to rest' before the distillery was forced to close its doors for the first time in its history.
The whisky, which has been nurtured over generations, was aged in a sherry seasoned oak cask and has been described as deep auburn in colour with an intensely rich, sweet and smoky finish.
Three hands sculpted in bronze, representing the distillery workers of 1940, one-time chairman Allan Shiach and Master Whisky Maker Kirsteen Campbell, encase each of the 288 decanters that are set to go on sale this month.
Ms Campbell said: "It is an honour to introduce The Reach. Created during a turbulent time in the world, this extraordinary expression showcases The Macallan's history, ingenuity and unmistakable strength of character.
"The creation of many hands, The Reach has been a truly collaborative effort. It's also a tribute to the people who made this precious whisky, and their enduring spirit which never wavered.
"Its deep auburn hue is the first hint of this remarkable whisky's astonishing depth. Offering notes of dark chocolate, sweet cinnamon and aromatic peat, leading on to treacle toffee, crystalised ginger and charred pineapple, before giving way to an intensely rich, sweet and smoky finish."
Each decanter comes with a cabinet crafted using wood from a fallen elm tree thought to have been on The Macallan Estate in 1940.
However, whisky enthusiasts hoping to add the rare release to their collection will have to part with a substantial sum of £92,000.
The historic whisky will go on display from today, February 9 at The Macallan Estate boutique and later in The Macallan domestic travel retail boutiques.
