The Macallan is looking beyond traditional whisky maturation with the launch of its Carta Nautica Collection, a new series of single malt Scotch whiskies inspired by the transatlantic journey of the oak casks used to mature them.
Named after the Spanish term for ‘nautical chart,’ the collection comprises two single malts: Carta Nautica Distilled in 1987, the first in a new series of vintage releases which will have a limited release and available only through The Macallan Estate Boutique and select The Macallan Boutiques globally; and Carta Nautica 20 Years Old, available exclusively through Global Travel Retail.
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Rather than relying on the sherry-seasoned oak for which The Macallan is best known, both whiskies in its latest collection undergo a more unconventional maturation. Carta Nautica begins with double maturation in sherry-seasoned casks from Jerez before being transferred into casks that previously held bourbon in North America. Then, it heads towards its final destination: The Macallan Estate in Speyside. It might be a long way to go for a dram, but the journey for whisky connoisseurs may well be worth it.
Speaking about the launch, Euan Kennedy, lead whisky maker at The Macallan, says: “By bringing together casks shaped by different continents and climates, we have created a selection of whiskies that express both contrast and harmony. Each element has been carefully guided to reveal a character that is complex, balanced, and deeply connected to its origins.”
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Distilled in 1987 and matured for 38 years, the vintage expression is bottled at 45.2 percent ABV. It has creamy vanilla and caramelized peach notes that lead into antique oak and florals, while fruity nectarine and pineapple develop alongside soft leather on the palate. By contrast, the 20 Year Old, bottled at 42 percent ABV, has a more tropical twist. Orange peel and vanilla meet pineapple, mango, and apricot conserve, finishing with wood spice and sultanas.
The presentation of the casks draw on that maritime theme at the heart of the collection. The bottles come in a stunning sculptural wooden case, with wave-like grooves rippling across the surface.
Inside, an open-frame wooden case houses the bottle alongside artwork by American artist Amy Genser, who is known for her distinctive paper-based works. Her design features shades of blue and turquoise with layers of texture that bring to the ocean and marine line. If the oak has crossed the Atlantic, it seems only fair that the packaging gets to make a little splash, too.
