Tales of The Macallan Volume I, The Laird of Easter Elchies (1659 - 1715), pays homage to Captain John Grant, who in 1700 saw the untapped potential of Easter Elchies Estate, the site of The Macallan whisky distillery since 1824.
This inaugural expression has been crafted by lead whisky maker, Sarah Burgess, in order to honour John Grant’s legacy. Distilled in 1950 and bottled in 2021, it is both distinctive and rare.
Sarah Burgess said: “Tales of The Macallan tells of remarkable individuals and an exceptional spirit. Each of these people left their mark on The Macallan with their unique contribution and legacy alive in our brand’s DNA and in every drop of our whisky to this day.
“Tales of The Macallan Volume I is a tribute to Captain John Grant, who paved the way for The Macallan and brought the influence of nature and community spirit. As custodians of the Estate, we are continuously inspired by our environment, upholding our responsibility to nurture and protect the wonderful natural habitat that is home to our distillery.
“Just like The Macallan Estate and Easter Elchies House, this precious whisky echoes of a very old tale. Wood spices, sweet wood smoke and antique oak are omnipresent and make a perfect liaison with the delicate symphony of ripe fruits and spices.”
Encased in a handcrafted Lalique crystal decanter, this single malt is concealed within an almanac book. A work of art, each chapter tells the story of John Grant and features illustrations by Andrew Davidson.
The Macallan also combined the skills of master craftsmen in crystal, leather and paper to create the unique packaging. Long-standing partner Lalique fashioned the flawless crystal decanter etched with one of Davidson’s illustrations. Attracted by a shared sense of heritage, craftsmanship and creativity, Lalique and The Macallan first came together in 2005 and since then have collaborated on a range of exquisite decanters and products.
Traditional London-based bookbinders, Shepherds, Sangorski & Sutcliffe and Zaehnsdorf, created the unique book, hand-crafted using luxurious leather and 24ct gold leaf, to conceal the decanter within its pages.
Limited to 350 decanters worldwide, Tales of The Macallan Volume I has an RRSP of $80,000 / £60,000 / €65,000 and will be available at The Macallan Estate, The Macallan Boutiques and premium off-trade retailers from August 2021.