Heart of oak
Macallan has unveiled a £1 million development on its estate, Rob Allanson went to investigate
One thing that is impossible to escape from when you stroll up at Macallan is that fact that the place oozes class.
It is everywhere from the sumptuous setting of Easter Elchies House to the immaculate still house. But most importantly with the spirit itself.
However all this aside there is one guideline at Macallan that is stuck to unwaveringly and that is cask selection â something that has seen it grow at three times the rate of the single malt market during the last five years.
Whenever you talk to someone at the distillery there is a distinct unfaltering obsession with selecting exceptional oak casks from the bodagas in Jerez and bourbon distillers in Kentucky.
All of which the company claims adds to the appeal of their whisky.
Now, with a £1m revamp on the Speyside estate, parent company Edrington is hoping to share some of this enthusiasm and panache with Macallan fans.
The centrepiece is a unique visitor experience dedicated to explaining the critical importance of oak wood, cask seasoning and unparalleled cask management in delivering the distinctive styles of The Macallan.
Housed in Warehouse 7, both the general public and trade visitors will have the chance to discover âThe Story of Oakâ and the crucial role it plays in producing The Macallan range.
The brand uses the highest percentage of sherry oak casks in the Scotch whisky industry â they are also the most expensive â and the new visitor area showcases these exceptional oak casks.
The centre.....
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By Rob Allanson
Section : Visitor Guides
Page number : 10
