To create the first edition in this new limited annual release series, The Macallan whisky maker Polly Logan travelled to Girona, Spain to draw inspiration from the chocolate-making process and chocolate flavour profiles.
Polly collaborated with world-renowned pastry chef Jordi Roca, the youngest of the Roca brothers of acclaimed Girona-based restaurant El Celler de Can Roca. As part of the exploration, she visited Jordi’s chocolate factory, Casa Cacao, and spent time with master chocolatier Damian Allsop.
Polly then created The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao, searching the sherry-seasoned oak casks maturing at The Macallan’s estate for a combination of European and American oak casks exhibiting chocolate notes.
The distillery says the result is an exceptionally rich single malt whisky characterised by a deep, dark chocolate profile, which pairs perfectly with rich chocolates.
In homage to its chocolate inspiration, The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao is encased in a recyclable and biodegradable presentation box made using natural by-products in the chocolate-making process: the discarded husks from cocoa pods.
Logan said: “The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao is a wonderful expression which brings together the world of whisky with the fascinating world of chocolate.
“Working in collaboration with Jordi Roca, acknowledged as one of the best and most creative pastry chefs in the world, and with exceptional chocolatier, Damian Allsop, I went on a journey of discovery, learning of the craftsmanship, passion and creativity which goes into making chocolate.
“As I immersed myself in this world, I uncovered a great synergy between the whisky-making process and that of chocolate. Both take time and exceptional attention to detail, with even the slightest changes to the process encouraging different aromas and flavours to emerge.”
Jordi Roca said: “Our collaboration with The Macallan allows us to challenge our own creativity, and in this project, we have been allowed to play with cacao, which is one of my passions. Being able to inspire a whisky and to create a unique tasting experience has been wonderful.”
The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao (44% ABV, RRP £115) will be available at retailers, bars and restaurants around the world from October 2021. For further information visit www.themacallan.com.