About the product
The Macallan 12 Year Old 110 Proof represents the pinnacle of sherry oak maturation. Aged for a minimum of 12 years in hand-selected European and American sherry oak casks, this single malt Scotch whisky delivers a rich, full-bodied experience with deep amber color and complex flavor layers.
At 110 proof, this expression offers robust character with notes of dried fruits, warm spices, and subtle oak influence. The higher alcohol content amplifies the whisky's natural complexity while maintaining the signature smoothness The Macallan is renowned for.
Perfect for the discerning collector or whisky enthusiast seeking a premium, well-balanced dram. The 750ml bottle makes an exceptional addition to any spirits collection.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairings
Tasting Notes
The high alcohol content amplifies the classic Macallan "Sherry Bomb" profile, making it denser and more "chewy" on the palate.
- Nose (The Aroma): It opens with heavy, concentrated notes of sticky dates and cherry compote. There is a distinct festive spice layer—think cinnamon sticks, star anise, and toasted almonds—with a bright lift of dried orange slices and dark cocoa nibs.
- Palate (The Taste): The mouthfeel is viscous and syrupy. You’ll get immediate rich oak and sultanas (golden raisins), followed by the warmth of stem ginger and mandarin zest. Mid-palate, it turns darker with dark chocolate-coated espresso beans and a savory hint of tobacco leaf.
- Finish: Long, warm, and drying. It leaves a lingering glow of treacle toffee, mocha, and sweet black pepper.
Food Pairings
With a 110-proof whisky, you need foods that have enough fat, salt, or sugar to stand up to the high alcohol heat.
1. Savory & Meat
- Seared Wagyu or Ribeye: The high fat content of a well-marbled steak coats the tongue, protecting it from the "burn" of the 55% ABV and allowing the dark fruit notes to shine.
- Roast Duck with Plum Sauce: The gamey richness of the duck and the sweetness of a fruit glaze mirror the sherry-cask influence perfectly.
2. Cheese
- Aged Gruyère or Challerhocker: These firm, nutty, and slightly salty alpine cheeses provide a savory contrast to the whisky's honeyed sweetness.
- Stilton or Roquefort: The creamy, pungent "funk" of blue cheese is a classic "power pairing" for high-proof sherried malts.
3. Sweets & Snacks
- 70% Dark Chocolate: A piece of high-quality dark chocolate will bring out the mocha and espresso notes in the finish.
- Ginger Snaps or Sticky Toffee Pudding: The ginger in the cookies echoes the "stem ginger" note in the whisky, while the dates in the pudding match the nose perfectly.
- Marcona Almonds: These oily, salty Spanish almonds are the ideal simple snack to bridge the gap between the oak spice and the sherry sweetness.
About the brand
Founded in 1824 by Alexander Reid, a barley farmer and schoolteacher, The Macallan was one of the first distilleries in Scotland to be legally licensed. Today, it is widely considered the "Rolls Royce" of Scotch.
