The Macallan 1997 18 Years Old Sherry Oak Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky ABV 43% Vol 70cl / 700ml

DESCRIPTION

The 1997 'vintage' edition of Macallan's iconic sherry cask Macallan 1997 18 Years Sherry Oak. With the discontinuation of age statements across most of their range, we have one question: How much longer will these 18yos continue to be produced?

TASTING NOTES (whiskyfun.com)

 Not exactly a ‘vintage’ whisky since it was distilled in 1997 ‘and in earlier years’, according to the label. Now, is there a real vintage effect in whisky? We’ll discuss that later… I have to say I really enjoyed last year’s 1996 (WF 87). The brand’s rather infuriating at times, but some of its whiskies remain quite excellent! Colour: deep gold. Nose: and yes it’s very fine, very elegant, and despite a few touches of struck matches here and there, I find this combination of walnuts, marmalade, chestnut honey, sweet bread, and fresh mushrooms/humus most engaging. It’s maybe just a little light. Not weak, light… Mouth: nah, this is undoubtedly very good. Honeyed oranges, orange blossom, chartreuse (never found this much chartreuse in Macallan), sultanas, marmalade, toasted brioche, drops of fig liqueur, perhaps a drop of pastis… I especially like the freshness. Finish: not very long, but pleasantly malty and chocolaty, which adds dimension. Only the aftertaste is a little ‘burnt’ (forgotten toast, coffee). Comments: it’s a flagship expression, and I guess they just couldn’t mess with it. Only the aftertaste was a little raw. Okay, same score, we’ll carefully check the newer one next year ;-). SGP:551 - 87 points.

PRODUCT SUMMARY