The Macallan recently released its M Collection, a range of limited-edition single malt whiskies which celebrates the brand’s Six Pillars, the foundation that account for the brand’s distinctive whiskies and comprise Natural Color, Mastery, Curiously Small Spirit Stills, The Estate, Exceptional Oak Casks and Sherry Seasoning.
The first three expressions are the 2022 editions of the previously-released M and M Black and the brand-new M Copper, which pays tribute to the unique copper stills utilized by The Macallan since it was founded in 1824.
Matured in a small number of hand-selected casks, The Macallan M 2022 release embodies “Natural Color,” a result of the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and its dedication to using natural ingredients and sherry seasoned oak casks. A rare spirit epitomizing the idea of transparency, the whisky is featured in a handcrafted Lalique crystal decanter.
The Macallan M Black 2022 release represents “Mastery” and trust in its craft. Rare, black ended casks holding peated spirit have been selected by the Whisky Mastery Team who have continued to push the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship. The spirit matured in the sherry seasoned oak casks has gathered depth and distinction over time and the handcrafted Lalique black crystal decanter reflects the peat smoke within the whisky.
The Macallan M Copper 2022 release is an ode to the “Curiously Small Spirit Stills” that remain key to crafting the spirit. One of the defining features of the distillation process, they represent a moment in whisky-making history as when most moved to larger, higher production copper stills. Their distinctive shape and size help to concentrate the new make spirit, creating the rich, robust character. A handcrafted Lalique copper colored crystal decanter represents the stills and reflects the authenticity which drives the brand through its dedication to innovative methods.
Visually representing the Six Pillars, the decanters are created in collaboration with creative director Fabien Baron and French crystal maker Lalique. Envisioned by Baron, they feature six facets while Lalique has drawn on over 130 years of mastery to bring refinement and flawless clarity.
“It is an honor to work with The Macallan – our long-standing partner for 16 years – to realize this exquisite collection and showcase our shared sense of mastery, craftsmanship and heritage, said Silvio Denz, Chairman and CEO of Lalique. “The decanters are completely unique in the world of decanters, very difficult to produce because of their shape and Lalique’s masters of crystal have relished applying their most complex skills to bring Fabien Baron’s creative vision to life.”
“Our Six Pillars foundation stones embody all that is unique to The Macallan, together underpinning the renowned quality and rich character of our whisky and The Macallan M Collection tells the story of these unique attributes,” said Jaume Ferras, Global Creative Director for The Macallan. “We are dedicated to uncompromised excellence, and proud to collaborate with Fabien Baron and Lalique to bring these extraordinary expressions to life, and with Nick Knight to create a dramatic visual world for the collection.”
The Macallan has also worked with luxury fashion photographer Nick Knight to create a series of photography and film in his abstract style. Knight’s imagery captures the collection in blocks of ice as a homage to The Macallan’s intrinsic connection to nature and the River Spey which runs through The Macallan Estate.
The Macallan M Collection began roll-out on Monday (June 20). The Macallan M 2022 release will retail at $6,750. The Macallan M Black 2022 release will retail at $7,750. The Macallan M Copper 2022 release will retail at $8,500.
