The Macallan releases 65 YO whisky

The Macallan has released the sixth and final expression from its Six Pillars Collection – a US$35,000, 65-year-old single malt whisky.

The whisky is said to be one of the oldest and rarest whiskies ever released by The Macallan

Described as one of the “oldest and rarest” whiskies ever released by the distillery, this ‘peerless spirit’ decanter was designed and crafted by French crystal house Lalique, which has worked with The Macallan on all six of its Six Pillars expressions – a project launched in 2005.

Just 450 individually numbered decanters housing this final expression are set to be released at a cost of US$35,000 (£24,000) each.

“This sixth and final release continues to showcase the unwavering commitment of both the masters of Lalique and The Macallan to create beautiful and desirable objets d’art”, said Raul Gonzalez, brand director for The Macallan.

“With the Six Pillars collection now complete, it is time to reflect not only on the exquisite whiskies that have been brought to the fore by The Macallan’s Master Whisky Maker but also on the extraordinary skills of the Lalique craftsmen carrying on the legacy of René Lalique, the man whose talent continues to inspire and influence. It is the heritage, customs and traditions of both The Macallan and Lalique that have united to create these ultimate collectable whiskies.”

Matured in Sherry-seasoned oak casks, the 46.3% abv whisky is described as “supremely balanced with comforting notes of honey-dipped Madagascan vanilla pods, cinnamon and Moroccan dates”. It is said to have a “medium body with hints of cracked black pepper, cloves and delicately toasted cocoa beans”, while the finish is “long and deeply satisfying with a rich flavor of honey and dark chocolate”.

The Macallan 65 Years Old ‘Peerless Spirit’ decanter will retail at approximately US$35,000 (£24,000). However this is by far the The Macallan’s most expensive whisky.

In 2015 the distillery entered the Guinness Book of World Records for the most expensive whisky sold at auction following the sale of its 64-year-old “M” Imperiale in Hong Kong.

The Macallan M Imperiale 6-litre Lalique decanter sold at auction in Hong Kong for US$628,000 in January 2014, breaking the previous record of $460,000 which was held by The Macallan’s Lalique Cire Perdue.