Macallan Aera

Macallan Aera is another NAS bottling from The Macallan Distillery. Founded in 1824, The Macallan has been through 7 owners and a stock market listing to get to where it is today.  Starting with Alexander Reid in 1824, Priest and Davidson in 1847, James Stuart in 1868, Roderick Kemp (former owner of the Talisker distillery) in 1892, Roderick Kemp Trust in 1909, The Kemp Trust becoming a private limited company in 1966, a listing on the London Stock Exchange in 1968, Suntory mopping up 25% of the business in 1986, Highland Distillers buying the remainder of the business in 1996, then finally Edrington and William Grant and Son’s buying out Highland Distillers in 1999.

Originally released for the Taiwanese market, this is Macallan Aera, a NAS single malt matured in predominantly in sherry-seasoned oak casks. After its maturation, it was bottled up at 40% ABV in this rather striking black bottle. Which reminds me of a really special night in Nairobi I had back in the 90’s, with something black and sleek that really tickled the back of my throat.

On the nose:

Rounded and well balanced with vanilla notes, candied dried fruits, orange peel and sweet citrus. Oh the memories of Kenya…

On the palate

Hint of chocolate and oh, was that night in Nairobi full of chocolate. Dried fruit richness, smooth as honey (yes, she was too) with a sweet citrus burst.

On The Finish

Medium to long, with lingering vanilla and a gentle warmth.

Macallan Aera in Summary

Ridiculously over priced if you buy this in the west. It’s not even that cheap in TW. Sure, if this whisky was a wench, I’d shag it. But at this price, the dinner date would be McDonald’s first. I can think of better things to spend this kind of money on. If you’re ever in Nairobi, I can recommend a few phone numbers.

Your Opinion

It’s a free world, and everyone is entitled to their opinions. Especially something as subjective as whisky. If you have any thoughts or opinions on this whisky, then please feel free to leave them below in the comments.