The Macallan A Night On Earth Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2021 Release

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.

There's been quite some interest in this curiously titled Macallan which reflects the story of Scotland’s world-famous Hogmanay festivities celebrated annually on 31st December. This seasonal release is a collaboration with acclaimed Japanese-French illustrator, Erica Dorn, whose artwork has featured in director Wes Anderson’s films.
The unique packaging provides a special unboxing experience coupled with Dorn’s playful abstract illustrations, inspired by the historic fire rituals dominant in New Year celebrations around the world. Upon opening the gift box you discover a blue interior, representing the night skies of Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) and the blue from the national flag of Scotland, the Saltire.​

Says Macallan's Lead Whisky Maker, Sarah Burgess, "Creating A Night on Earth in Scotland has been an extremely personal experience for me, which took me back to growing up in our family home in Speyside, just across the river from The Macallan Estate."

American and European oak sherry seasoned casks, along with American ex-bourbon barrels have been employed to bestow a rich, sweet shortbread-like character - a whisky referencing the rich Scottish delicacy traditionally gifted and eaten at Hogmanay. This profile is punctuated by festive notes of dried orange and spice. It's recommended neat, with a serve of shortbread on the side. 43% Alc./Vol. Natural colour.

Other reviews... Macallan always loves to wear its sherry on its sleeve, but this is nonetheless one of the racier bottlings I’ve seen from the classic Speyside outfit in recent years. Boldly sherried up front, the whisky exudes notes of fresh clementines and cloves on the nose, though these exuberant, Christmassy characteristics are tempered by notes of oiled leather and roasted chestnuts. Austere but refined, it immediately invites sipping, where many of these same elements are evident. Oily with orange and nougat notes prominent, it fades into a lightly grassy cereal character, some youth evident later in the game. The finish has a gently pastoral character to it, though it remains bright and dripping in citrus notes, almost lemony at times. While it’s not overwhelmingly serious or complex, it is hard to put down — and a (nearly) classic example of what Macallan does best. And it’s awfully pretty in the box. - drinkhacker.com