As a whiskey enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting spirits to try. Recently, I had the pleasure of tasting The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition. This limited annual series is the second edition of The Macallan Classic Cut, and it has an ABV of 51.2%, chosen by the Whisky Maker Ian Morrison to reveal a dominant sweetness and well-balanced flavors delivered by the exceptional Sherry Oak Casks.

The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Overview

As an avid whiskey enthusiast, I was excited to try The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition. This limited annual release is the second edition of the Classic Cut series, and it has an ABV of 51.2%. The whisky maker, Ian Morrison, chose this strength to highlight a dominant sweetness and well-balanced flavors delivered by the exceptional Sherry Oak Casks.

Product History

The Macallan has a rich history dating back to 1824, when it was founded by Alexander Reid. It is one of the most popular and well-regarded whiskey brands in the world, known for its exceptional quality and distinctive flavor. The Classic Cut series is a new addition to The Macallan’s portfolio, with the first edition released in 2017.

The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition is a limited annual release, and it is highly sought after by whiskey enthusiasts. It is matured in oak casks and bottled at the optimum strength to reveal a dominant sweetness and well-balanced flavors.

Price Range

The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition is a premium whiskey, and it is priced accordingly. The price range varies depending on the market and the retailer, but it typically falls around $100 and upwards of $500. While it may seem expensive, it is worth the investment for whiskey lovers who appreciate high-quality, limited-edition releases.

photo credit: www.themacallan.com

Tasting Notes

Aroma

Upon opening the bottle of The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition, I was greeted with a strong aroma of sherry, citrus, and oak. The scent was rich and inviting, with a hint of sweetness that made me eager to take a sip. As I let the whisky breathe for a few minutes, the aroma intensified, and I could detect notes of dried fruit and spice.

Flavor

The first sip of this whisky was bold and complex, with a rich flavor that filled my mouth. The dominant flavor was sherry, which was balanced nicely by notes of vanilla, citrus, and oak. As I continued to sip, I could detect hints of dried fruit, chocolate, and spice. The flavor was strong and intense, but not overpowering, and I found myself savoring each sip.

Finish

The finish of The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition was long and satisfying, with a lingering sweetness that left me wanting more. The sherry notes were still present, but they were balanced by a subtle smokiness and a hint of spice. The finish was smooth and warming, with a slight tingle on the tongue that reminded me of the high ABV.

Rating

Overall, I found The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition to be an excellent whisky, with a bold and complex flavor that was perfectly balanced. The aroma was rich and inviting, and the finish was long and satisfying. I would highly recommend this whisky to anyone who enjoys a strong, flavorful dram with a touch of sweetness. I would give it a rating of 9 out of 10.

Mixing and Pairing

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Best Mixers

The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition is a high-proof Scotch whisky that can be enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water. However, if you want to mix it with something, I recommend using high-quality ginger ale or soda water. These mixers will complement the whisky’s rich flavors without overpowering them.

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Cocktail Suggestions

If you’re looking to create a cocktail with The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition, I suggest trying a classic Old Fashioned. To make this cocktail, start by muddling a sugar cube with a few dashes of Angostura bitters in a rocks glass. Add a large ice cube and 2 ounces of The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition. Stir gently, and garnish with an orange twist.

Another great cocktail to try is penicillin. This cocktail combines whisky, honey, lemon juice, and ginger syrup for a delicious and refreshing drink.

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Food Pairings

The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition is a versatile whisky that pairs well with a variety of foods. For a savory pairing, I recommend pairing it with a charcuterie board or a nice steak. The whisky’s bold flavors will complement the rich, salty flavors of the meat and cheese.

If you have a sweet tooth, try pairing The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition with a rich chocolate dessert. The whisky’s notes of honey and apricot will complement the chocolate’s sweetness for a decadent treat.

Conclusion

After trying The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition, I can say that it is a well-balanced and enjoyable whisky. The sweetness dominates the flavor profile, but the exceptional Sherry Oak Casks deliver a complexity that makes this whisky stand out.

If you enjoy a sweeter whisky, The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition is definitely one to try. Its high ABV of 51.2% makes it a strong drink, but it is not overpowering. The nose is pleasant with hints of fruit and spice, and the finish is long and satisfying.

I would recommend The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition to any whisky lover looking for a high-quality, limited edition Scotch. Its complexity and balance make it a standout among other whiskies in its price range.

Related Posts

As a whisky enthusiast, I always enjoy discovering new and exciting drams to add to my collection. If you’re a fan of The Macallan Classic Cut – 2018 Edition, you might be interested in checking out some of these related posts:

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