Macallan Speymalt 18J-1997/2015 Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Speyside, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Distilled by Macallan and independently bottled by Gordon McPhail in 2015, after 18 years of maturation. The whisky showcases the use of first-fill sherry casks in its maturation process, contributing to its color and flavor profile.
Age Statement: 18 years.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky has a light reddish-brown color, indicating the presence of first-fill sherry casks in the maturation process. The bottle design features a distinctive red stripe, a modern adaptation from a previously used ribbon, making it easily identifiable on shelves.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky is described as having an excellent balance, transitioning smoothly from the nose through the palate to the aftertaste. It is characterized as warming and rewarding.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its intense, full, and massive malt profile. The flavor is layered with beeswax polish, a thick layer of Oloroso sherry, and tropical fruitiness, attributed to the distillery's use of small pot stills which intensify the spirit's character.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its unique flavor profile, especially the combination of beeswax polish and tropical fruitiness, sets it apart.

Production Insights: The collaboration between Macallan and Gordon McPhail allows for the release of younger, fresher Macallans by the independent bottler, showcasing a symbiotic relationship where Gordon McPhail occasionally returns very old casks to Macallan for their own vintage releases.
Bottling Process: The transition from a ribbon to a label with a red stripe on the bottle is highlighted as a cost-effective yet distinctive design choice.

Geographical Context: The whisky benefits from the similar microclimate of the warehouses of Gordon McPhail and Macallan, located near each other in Speyside. This proximity is suggested to positively influence the maturation process.

"What an intense, full, massive malt!" - Horst Luening, master taster of Whisky.com.
"It's a wonderful jam. An excellent balanced dram from the nose over the palate to the aftertaste." - Horst Luening.
The whisky is considered reasonably priced for an 18-year-old Macallan, especially when compared to the official Macallan 18 years old from the Sherry cask, which sells for significantly more.

The Macallan Speymalt 1997, bottled in 2015 by Gordon McPhail, is an 18-year-old single malt Scotch whisky from Speyside.
It features a rich and intense flavor profile with notes of beeswax polish, Oloroso sherry, and tropical fruits, attributed to the use of first-fill sherry casks and the distillery's small pot stills.
The whisky is highlighted for its excellent balance and smooth transition of flavors.
The collaboration between Macallan and Gordon McPhail is noted, along with the geographical benefits of their proximity in Speyside.
The whisky is considered a good value, especially in comparison to the official Macallan 18 years old Sherry cask.

For Whisky Collectors: The unique collaboration and bottling story, along with the distinctive flavor profile, make this a must-have.
For Enthusiasts of Rich and Complex Whiskies: Those who appreciate a deep, layered flavor profile with notes of sherry, tropical fruits, and a hint of beeswax polish will find this whisky particularly enjoyable.
For Bargain Hunters: Given its quality and the comparison to the significantly more expensive official Macallan 18 years old, this whisky offers great value for connoisseurs looking for a premium experience without the premium price tag.