October 2022 Auction

Macallan 72 Year Old Lalique Genesis Decanter

One of two \"Genesis\" releases bottled in 2018 to celebrate the opening of the brand new Macallan distillery. The first was the infamous Genesis 2018 Release, followed by this, the Spectacular Genesis Decanter.

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.

Presented in a beautiful Lalique crystal decanter, at the time of release, this was the oldest Macallan single malt ever bottled. This was distilled in the 1940s, in period of post-war optimism both in the whisky industry and the world as a whole. Having lay maturing for a staggering 72 years, this was bottled in a year Macallan themselves describe as a \"new dawn,\" representing a new period of optimism for the future with their new, behemoth distillery opening in June that year.

The decanter and its presentation are designed to evoke and celebrate the architecture of the new site:

\"Lalique has captured the character of the new Distillery in crystal, with the horizon of the decanter rising and falling in reflection of the roof line and incorporating the clean lines and natural curves. Each decanter is encased in a bespoke presentation case inspired by the interior of the Distillery, with a curved wooden roof over the decanter, and a footprint taken directly from the circular layout of the three new still houses.\"

It was designed by Burgess Studio, and was handcrafted by Royal Warrant holding cabinet makers, NEJ Stevenson.

One of only 600.

Macallan 55 Year Old Six Pillars Collection / Japan

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.

An incredibly well-aged Macallan, bottled exclusively for the Japanese market.

This 55 year old Japanese Exclusive is part of exclusive Six Pillars Collection, a series of six bottles all denoting a different facet of what Macallan believes sets them apart. This release highlights the Exceptional Oak Casks pillar. The other five are Spiritual Home, Curiously Small Stills, Finest Cut, Natural Colour and Peerless Spirit.

This is one of only 100 bottles .

Please note that this is not a part of the Lalique Six Pillars Collection, and is part of a separate Japanese exclusive series.

Macallan James Bond 60th Anniversary Release Decade 1-6 / Globe Trotter with Prints

\"A whisky which celebrates the legacy of 007\"

The following lot is for the complete 2022 James Bond 60th anniversary collection from Macallan. The set is presented in a luxurious travel case produced by Globe Trotter.

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills. This lot consists of the following:

• Macallan James Bond 60th Anniversary Release Decade 1-6 43.7% 6 x 70cl - This is the complete six-bottle series that celebrated the 60th anniversary of the James Bond films in 2022. The packaging of each bottle displays production sketches used throughout the six decades of filmmaking.
• Globe Trotter Presentation / Travel Suitcase - Established in 1897, Globe Trotter is a luxury manufacture of travel luggage. They became famous for their high-quality craftsmanship and the use of a patented and sturdy Vulcanised Fibreboard lining in their suitcases; of which this example features. As you would expect, the case is well made and features fine leather tags, straps and strong lockable catches .
• Limited Archival Pigment Prints x 6 - These are six beautiful prints that feature the artwork used in the packaging for the James Bond releases. They are printed on smooth fine art paper which is made from 100% cotton (dimensions 60.5 x 41.65 cm)

Number 011 of only 300 sets produced.

NOTE: Due to the weight and size of this lot, it will include a eight bottle shipping fee.

Glenfiddich Time Re-Imagined Collection 3 x 70cl

The following lot is for the compete 2022 Time Re-Imagined Collection from Speyside’s Glenfiddich distillery. 

Glenfiddich was an early advocate of the single malt Scotch category, and their faith is rewarded today by being one of the best-selling Scotch brands in the world. The distillery was built by William Grant in 1886, distilling its first spirit on Christmas day the following year. Today it is still part of the family-owned, William Grant & Sons. They became the first distillery to actively market their single malt brand in 1963, and were the first to open their facility to visitors. Glenfiddich was an important trailblazer in the whisky industry, who's contribution cannot be forgotten. The scale of their operation today is a testament to this. This increible lot includes the following three bottles:

• Glenfiddich 30 Year Old Suspended Time 43% 70cl - This 30 year old single malt has been aged in a combination of European and American oak. The bottled is presented in a modern decanter that gives the illusion that it is suspended in mid-air.
• Glenfiddich 40 Year Old Cumulative Time 44.6% 70cl - This 40 year old single malt has been aged in a combination of hogshead and ex-Sherry butt casks. The bottled is presented in a handmade jesmonite box, each one unique.
• Glenfiddich 50 Year Old Simultaneous Time 43.8% 70cl - This 50 year old single malt is a marriage of three different American oak casks matured in the same warehouse before being finished in more American oak for two years. The bottle is presented in an aluminium box, created in collaboration with data artist Manuel Jiménez Garcia. A metallic flight-case is also included.

NOTE: Due to the size and weight of this lot, it will include a twelve-bottle shipping fee.

Ardbeg 1974 Single Bourbon Cask #2742

You would not think it to see it now, but Ardbeg had a difficult time of it for much of the 20th century. The distillery was bought in a joint venture between Hiram Walker and DCL in 1959, both intending to supply their blends. The subsequent years were very successful, but DCL backed out in 1979 (closing many of their other distilleries a few years later), and Hiram Walker then struggled in the 1980s era oversupply when interest is blended Scotch was waning. They closed it down for the majority of the decade. It re-opened briefly in the 1990s before being revived for good by Glenmorangie plc in 1997.

A Single Cask Ardbeg filled on 14th June 1974 and bottled 31 years later on the 20th September 2005. This is one of only 36 bottles from cask #2742, the smallest-ever single cask release from the distillery. The bottles were originally only available to hotel bars around the world, meaning many will have been opened and consumed.

Bowmore 1969 Bourbon and Sherry Cask 50 Year Old

Debuting in 2018 this is the 2022 and final edition of Bowmore's Vaults series. This vintage joins the 1965, 1966 and 1964 which make-up the complete collection. 

Islay’s oldest working distillery, Bowmore was established in 1779 and is now regarded as one of the most popular malts not only on Islay, but in the whole of Scotland. The distillery was acquired by Stanley P. Morrison in 1963, ushering in an era of iconic single malts, including the legendary Black Bowmore, credited by many as the genesis of whisky collecting, bottled in 1993. The distillery was bought under the control Suntory the year after they had been stakeholders since 1989), and it remains one of the most collectible brands in Scotch whisky today. Bowmore is one of the few remaining Scottish distilleries to use its own floor maltings, providing them with 40% of their requirements.

The whisky was distilled in 1969 and has been aged in a combination of ex-Bourbon and Spanish oak ex-Oloroso sherry casks. 

As you would expect, the bottle is immaculately presented in a beautifully crafted display case which includes information regarding the release. It also includes a heavy wooden branded travel case.

One of 339 bottles which were first made available at London Heathrow Airport followed by other Global Travel retailers across the world. 

Due to the size and weight of this item, it will include a twelve-bottle shipping fee.

Suntory Rolling Stones 50th Anniversary

Whisky Auctioneer are delighted to present at auction the striking Rolling Stones 50th Anniversary bottling from Suntory. 

This remarkable blend was released in 2012 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the band's formation, with the blend itself containing 50 year old malt whisky distilled at Yamazaki in 1962, the same year that the band was formed. 

The Yamazaki component was matured in mizunara casks, with other components of the blend chosen to represent key milestones in the history of the Rolling Stones. For example, whisky from 1971 was chosen in recognition of the year the famous 'tongue and lips' logo was launched. Other notable elements are Hakushu 1990 and Chita 1990, chosen to celebrate the year in which the band played their first concert in Japan. 

One of only 150 bottles, presented in a wooden display case with stopper. 

Karuizawa 1999-2000 Cask Strength Sherry Butt 8 x 70cl / Batch 1-8

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

Released in late 2022, this is a collection of eight batches from the silent Japanese distillery. All the whisky has been aged in ex-Sherry butts and has been bottled at cask strength. It includes:

• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Cask Strength Sherry Butt 1st Batch 49.3% 70cl
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Cask Strength Sherry Butt 2nd Batch 52.1% 70cl
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Cask Strength Sherry Butt 3rd Batch 51.8% 70cl
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Cask Strength Sherry Butt 4th Batch 48.5% 70cl
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Cask Strength Sherry Butt 5th Batch 52.2% 70cl
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Cask Strength Sherry Butt 6th Batch 51.1% 70cl
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Cask Strength Sherry Butt 7th Batch 52.1% 70cl
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Cask Strength Sherry Butt 8th Batch 49.4% 70cl

This lot will include a eight bottle shipping fee.

Macallan Archival Series Folio 1-6

First released in 2015, the following lot consists of editions 1-6 from Macallan's Folio series. 

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.

Each edition celebrates old advertising styles used by the distillery throughout the years. The bottles are each presented in a beautifully designed book-shaped tin which includes a book which details that particular release.

• Macallan Archival Series Folio 1 43% 70cl
• Macallan Archival Series Folio 2 43% 70cl
• Macallan Archival Series Folio 3 43% 70cl
• Macallan Archival Series Folio 4 43% 70cl
• Macallan Archival Series Folio 5 43% 70cl
• Macallan Archival Series Folio 6 43% 70cl

Due to the size and weight of this lot, it will include a twelve bottles shipping fee.

Macallan 1968 Fine and Rare 33 Year Old #5913

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.  

The Fine and Rare Series of whiskies was launched in 2002, designed to represent the very best vintages and whisky that Macallan had to offer, dating back as far as 1926.

Distilled in 1968 and bottled 33 years from single first fill American oak sherry hogshead #5913. This is one of only two casks selected as the finest examples of this vintage.

Unique Reference: hc25fk.

Signed and dated on 13th June 2007.

Hanyu 1988 Ichiro's Malt 'Card' #9417 / Three of Diamonds

Since its stills were turned off in 2000, Hanyu has become one of Japan's most sought after single malts. An economic recession at the turn of the millennium forced the distillery to shut its doors, and the remaining casks of its unblended whisky stock were purchased by Venture Whisky, a firm established by the Hanyu distillery founder's grandson, Ichiro Akuto, in 2004. In 2005 he bottled his first single casks under the Ichiro's Malt label. He later cemented his legacy with the opening of the acclaimed Chichibu distillery, but his finest achievement will surely always be considered to be the Hanyu 'Card' series. The bottles are a collection of 58 releases, each displaying one of 52 playing cards on the label, two jokers, and a second batch of follow up releases to the original 2005 Ace of Spades, Queen of Hearts, King of Diamonds, and Jack of Clubs bottlings. Each unique in its own right, every one of these have become a true collector's piece and an important moment in the history Japanese whisky.

Distilled in 1988 and bottled in 2007, this was originally matured in a hogshead and then finished in a bourbon barrel.

One of 273 bottles.

Brora Triptych 3 x 50cl

A spectacular release which was produced to celebrate the reopening of the Brora distillery in 2021.

Brora distillery (originally known as Clynelish) was built by the Duke of Sutherland in 1819. Prized by blenders, the distillery found itself in the hands of DCL in 1925 when they acquired shareholders, Ainslie & Heilbron and John Walker & Sons. DCL closed the distillery in 1967 after opening a new, larger Clynelish next-door, but re-opened the first site, now renamed as Brora the following year. Bottlings of the whisky it produced between then and its second closure in 1983 are now increasingly sought after. It was never bottled officially as Brora during its years of operation, and the Rare Malts Selection in 1995 were the first distillery bottlings to bear the name. In 2017 it was announced that Diageo planned to re-open this formerly lost gem, and the revived distillery filled its first casks on 19^th May 2021.

Titled Triptych, the set includes three malts which each represent a different and iconic style of spirit from the distillery. It includes:

• Brora 1972 48 Year Old The Elusive Legacy 42.8% 50cl
• Brora 1977 43 Year Old The Age of Peat 48.6% 50cl
• Brora 1982 38 Year Old Timeless Original 47.5% 50cl

The bottles are presented in an impressive wooden presentation case which includes three weighty decanter stoppers for each of the bottles. It also carries a small book which details each of the whiskies in this beautiful release.

One of 300 sets.

Due to the size and weight of this item, it will include a sixteen-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 1967 Single Cask #6426 / LMDW

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This limited release was distilled in 1967 and bottled on 17th August 2009 with a vintage label produced exclusively for La Maison du Whisky, France.

Single cask #6426 was split between this release, and a bottling for The Whisky Exchange's 10th Anniversary. 

Bottled at cask strength.

Macallan 1970 Samaroli 14 Year Old / Osteria Apostoli

Samaroli is perhaps Italy's most revered independent bottler of Scotch whisky. With an impeccable taste in single cask whiskies, and an eye for aesthetics (if not English spelling at times!), he is regarded by many as a visionary. Many of his bottles now occupy deserved sports on the pantheon of whisky greats.

This is an incredibly rare 1970 vintage Macallan, bottled by R.W. Duthie in 1984 and exclusively reserved for the Osteria Apostoli in Milan. This is one of several releases, bottled alongside a Laphroaig, Bowmore and a Mortlach.

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.

Macallan 40 Year Old The Red Collection

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.  

This impressive 40 year old was launched in October 2020 as part of The Red Collection. The range also includes a 50, 60, 71, 74 and 78 year old, some of the oldest whisky ever bottled by the distillery. The colour Red has a myriad of significance for Macallan, from its founder's name, Alexander Reid, meaning \"the red one,\" to the the label aesthetic being an homage to the oldest vintages bottled from the distillery in the late 1970s and Allan Shiach marking them with red ribbons in the 1980s.

The 40 year old was created by Whisky Maker, Kirsteen Campbell.

Macallan 40 Year Old 2005 Release

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills. 

A fantastic, slightly older release of the Macallan 40 year old before it became a staple of the annual release calender.

This limited release was bottled in 2005.

Laphroaig 1970 Samaroli 14 Year Old / Osteria Apostoli

Samaroli is perhaps Italy's most revered independent bottler of Scotch whisky. With an impeccable taste in single cask whiskies, and an eye for aesthetics (if not English spelling at times!), he is regarded by many as a visionary. Many of his bottles now occupy deserved sports on the pantheon of whisky greats.

This is an incredibly rare 1970 vintage Laphroaig, bottled by R.W. Duthie in 1984 and exclusively reserved for the Osteria Apostoli in Milan. This is one of several releases, bottled alongside a Macallan, Bowmore and a Mortlach.

Laphroaig is the largest of the three heavyweight Islay distilleries in Kildalton, out-stripping the production capacity of neighbours, Ardbeg and Lagavulin, by over 1 million litres per annum. Despite its traditional appearance, Laphroaig was always a forward-thinking distillery. It was bottled as a single malt as early as the 1920s, an unfashionable option at the time, especially for a peated whisky. They were also shrewd in capitalising on post-Prohibition America to add trademark sweetness to their spirit through the use of imported ex-bourbon casks, and hired Scotland’s first ever female distillery manager, Bessie Williamson, in 1954. Laphroaig is one of only a handful of distilleries in Scotland to still use in-house maltings, providing them with 20% of their annual requirements, and contributing to the distillery’s unique flavour profile.

It is worth noting that this bottle is not without its fair share of controversy. Indeed, there are examples of it in existence with two slightly different labels, each of which has the same information but presented with a different typeface. For a number of years it was widely considered that the bottle presented here was the genuine article, and the less common variation was inauthentic. A spanner was thrown in the works however by the discovery by Emmanuel Dron of the second label design in Silvano's archives. It was not apparently attached to any bottles however. Several bottles sourced directly from the Osteria's former-owner were also labelled with the same typeface as this bottle. The likelihood is that the label was reprinted for one reason or another, perhaps on account of the mis-spelling of \"Laphroaihg\" (although it is not correct on either), or to add the volume and strength measurements which are absent on the example printed in Dron's Collecting Scotch Whisky. Sadly there is no absolute clarity on the issue, however we are able to offer a strong degree of confidence. This bottle has a reassuring consistency in its presentation. The glass type, plastic capsule and cork top are the same material as those used by R.W. Duthie for this period, as is the paper stock of the label. A former owner has replaced the original tax strip, however the condition of the capsule beneath means that this is not a concern.

Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength Sherry Casks 1980s / Samaroli Import

Springbank distillery has been owned and operated by the Mitchell family in Campbeltown since 1837, and it is one of Scotland's most revered distilleries. Following a brief mothballing between 1979 and 1987, upon the reopening the decision was taken to cease all sales to the blending industry and focus on its single malt sales. Today it is the only distillery to malt, distil, bottle and mature whisky on the same site, and produces three distinct and highly prized single malts.  

This is a ludicrously rare and highly sought after Springbank, officially bottled for Samaroli Imports. This dates from the early 1980s when Silvano Samaroli's independent bottling business was still in its infancy, and he was still operating as an official importer. Taking inspiration from the legendary Edoardo Giaccone, proprietor of Edward & Edward (aka Whiskyteca Garten) in Salo, Samaroli imported outwith the standard distillery offerings, and sought out exclusive cask strength and sherry cask offerings like this for his clients. The back label of the bottle includes his tasting notes.

This Springbank was awarded 98 points by Serge Valentin on WhiskyFun.com

One of 2,400 bottles.

Macallan 40 Year Old The Red Collection

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.  

This impressive 40 year old was launched in October 2020 as part of The Red Collection. The range also includes a 50, 60, 71, 74 and 78 year old, some of the oldest whisky ever bottled by the distillery. The colour Red has a myriad of significance for Macallan, from its founder's name, Alexander Reid, meaning \"the red one,\" to the the label aesthetic being an homage to the oldest vintages bottled from the distillery in the late 1970s and Allan Shiach marking them with red ribbons in the 1980s.

The 40 year old was created by Whisky Maker, Kirsteen Campbell.

Karuizawa 31 Year Old Single Sherry Cask #3667 / Golden Geisha

Originally known as Speciality Drinks, Elixir Distillers was established in 1999 as the independent bottling arm of The Whisky Exchange, which launched its online retail site the same year. Their first bottlings were under the Single Malts of Scotland label in 2005, followed by the Elements of Islay range and Port Askaig single malt brand in 2006 and 2009, respectively. The company was renamed Elixir Distillers as of 2017.

This Karuizawa is one of two highly sought after 'Golden Geisha' releases, which were available to purchase by winners of a ballot hosted by The Whisky Exchange.

Aged for 31 years in sherry cask #3667, one of 225 bottles. 

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed  in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

Macallan 1946 Fine and Rare 56 Year Old #46/3M

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.  

The Fine and Rare Series of whiskies was launched in 2002, designed to represent the very best vintages and whisky that Macallan had to offer, dating back as far as 1926.

This is one of 350 bottles drawn from cask #46/3M, a marriage of three second fill sherry hogsheads, all distilled in 1946 and selected as the best expressions of that vintage.

Unique reference: gcd54y

Signed and dated by N McKellar on 21st March 2006.

Glenfiddich 50 Year Old 1st Edition

This famous bottling of Glenfiddich was bottled in 1991 and limited to an incredible 500 bottles. In the early 1990s one of these bottles officially became the most expensive bottle of whisky ever sold at auction selling for 99,999,999 Lira in an Italian charity auction.

Glenfiddich was an early advocate of the single malt Scotch category, and their faith is rewarded today by being one of the best-selling Scotch brands in the world. The distillery was built by William Grant in 1886, distilling its first spirit on Christmas day the following year. Today it is still part of the family-owned, William Grant & Sons. They became the first distillery to actively market their single malt brand in 1963, and were the first to open their facility to visitors. Glenfiddich was an important trailblazer in the whisky industry, who's contribution cannot be forgotten. The scale of their operation today is a testament to this.

This release was restricted to only nine casks laid down in the 1930s, one cask for each of William Grant's nine children who helped build Glenfiddich distillery into the success that it has become today. The casks, four distilled in 1937, and five in 1939, were vatted on 4th April 1990 in single cask #3034 and married for one year before being bottled on the 26th July 1991.

Each bottle was signed by former Chairman Alexander Grant Gordon, who is also the great-grandson of the company's founder.

Bottle number 132 includes a certificate, stating that the owner of the bottle is to be appointed as a Freeman of Glenfiddich distillery.

Hanyu 1986 Ichiro's Malt 'Card' #9418 / King of Spades​

Since its stills were turned off in 2000, Hanyu has become one of Japan's most sought after single malts. An economic recession at the turn of the millennium forced the distillery to shut its doors, and the remaining casks of its unblended whisky stock were purchased by Venture Whisky, a firm established by the Hanyu distillery founder's grandson, Ichiro Akuto, in 2004. In 2005 he bottled his first single casks under the Ichiro's Malt label. He later cemented his legacy with the opening of the acclaimed Chichibu distillery, but his finest achievement will surely always be considered to be the Hanyu 'Card' series. The bottles are a collection of 58 releases, each displaying one of 52 playing cards on the label, two jokers, and a second batch of follow up releases to the original 2005 Ace of Spades, Queen of Hearts, King of Diamonds, and Jack of Clubs bottlings. Each unique in its own right, every one of these have become a true collector's piece and an important moment in the history Japanese whisky.

Distilled in 1986 and placed into hogshead cask #9418, this was bottled in 2007 after finishing in bourbon wood. 

Bottle number 52 of 271. 

Karuizawa 36 Year Old Single Sherry Cask #5077 / Sapphire Geisha

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed  in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This is one of two sought after 'Sapphire Geisha' releases from early 2020, which were available to purchase by winners of a ballot hosted by The Whisky Exchange.

Aged for 36 years in sherry cask #5077, this bottle is number 18 of 105. 

Glenfiddich 50 Year Old 1st Edition

This famous bottling of Glenfiddich was bottled in 1991 and limited to an incredible 500 bottles. In the early 1990s one of these bottles officially became the most expensive bottle of whisky ever sold at auction selling for 99,999,999 Lira in an Italian charity auction.

Glenfiddich was an early advocate of the single malt Scotch category, and their faith is rewarded today by being one of the best-selling Scotch brands in the world. The distillery was built by William Grant in 1886, distilling its first spirit on Christmas day the following year. Today it is still part of the family-owned, William Grant & Sons. They became the first distillery to actively market their single malt brand in 1963, and were the first to open their facility to visitors. Glenfiddich was an important trailblazer in the whisky industry, who's contribution cannot be forgotten. The scale of their operation today is a testament to this.

This release was restricted to only nine casks laid down in the 1930s, one cask for each of William Grant's nine children who helped build Glenfiddich distillery into the success that it has become today. The casks, four distilled in 1937, and five in 1939, were vatted on 4th April 1990 in single cask #3034 and married for one year before being bottled on the 26th July 1991.

Each bottle was signed by former Chairman Alexander Grant Gordon, who is also the great-grandson of the company's founder.

Bottle number 263 includes a certificate, stating that the owner of the bottle is to be appointed as a Freeman of Glenfiddich distillery.

Macallan 1951

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.  

Bottled in 2001, this is a precursor to the Macallan Fine & Rare series which was lunched the following year and borrowed heavily on the aesthetic used here. 

Distilled in 1951, this was bottled from two sherry butts selected for their exceptional quality, #1541 and #1542.

One of only 632 bottles.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Cask 35 Year Old #2360

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This beautifully presented whisky was distilled in 1981 and laid to rest in single ex-Sherry cask #2360 for 35 years before being bottled in 2017.

One of 226 bottles.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Cask 35 Year Old #8223 / Splendid Age

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This beautifully presented whisky was distilled in 1981 and laid to rest in single ex-Bourbon cask #8223 for 35 years before being bottled in 2017.

One of 257 bottles.

Karuizawa 1981 Wealth Solutions #4059

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This limited release was distilled in 1981 and originally bottled in 2017. This one is presented by Wealth Solutions.

Produced from single ex-sherry cask #4059.

Karuizawa 1981 Wealth Solutions #6183

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This limited release was distilled in 1981 and originally bottled in 2017. This one is presented by Wealth Solutions.

Produced from single ex-sherry cask #6183.

Hanyu 1991 Ichiro's Malt 'Card' #401 / Nine of Clubs

Since its stills were turned off in 2000, Hanyu has become one of Japan's most sought after single malts. An economic recession at the turn of the millennium forced the distillery to shut its doors, and the remaining casks of its unblended whisky stock were purchased by Venture Whisky, a firm established by the Hanyu distillery founder's grandson, Ichiro Akuto, in 2004. In 2005 he bottled his first single casks under the Ichiro's Malt label.

Distilled in 1991 and bottled in 2011 from cask #401. 

Initially matured in hogshead prior to being finished in a Bourbon barrel.

One of 238 bottles.

Macallan Distil Your World New York

The 2022 release from the Distill Your World series which celebrates the great city of New York.

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.

This New York release has been produced by Macallan Whisky Maker Polly Logan alongside the Roca brothers of the world-famous restaurant El Celler de Can Roca of Girona, Spain. The restaurant opened in 1986 and since then has twice been named best restaurant in the world by Restaurant magazine. Although the Roca brothers have never felt the need to open more restaurants in different locations, they do occasionally take their cuisine on tour via temporary \"pop-ups\". 

The whisky has been aged in six European and American oak casks before being bottled at cask strength. It is presented in a stunning display case which features a 3D triangular design and a hidden compartment containing a book which details the release.

One of 1,000 bottles which were made available at Macallan Boutiques around the world and premium specialist retailers.