“One of my favourite things about these whiskies is how difficult they make my job,” laughs Euan Kennedy. Right then and there, our interview turns into a relaxing nightcap with a friend, as two drams of Sherry Oak 25 and 30 Years Old from the Scottish distiller’s Timeless Collections are set before us.
During our toast, The Macallan’s Lead Whisky Maker reminds me how the two expressions are different: “Time… increases the complexity and concentration of flavours.” One of his responsibilities is to describe these flavours, which are in some cases almost inexplicable.
A quarter-century of careful maturation has created the delicious Sherry Oak 25 Years Old whisky with notes of ginger syrup, rich oak, and raisins, he explains. As for the Sherry Oak 30 Years Old, it is amazingly rich and complex, with layers of wood spice, stem ginger, and orange notes.
According to Kennedy, the European oak is essential to what makes The Macallan. “With the right care and attention, it offers flavours like rich dried fruits, toffee, raisins, sultanas, and dark chocolate.
“These are the hallmarks of The Macallan, and they are supported by our strong relationship with Jerez de la Frontera in Spain.” Recent years have in fact seen a deepening of this collaboration. Since 2023, The Macallan has partnered with Bodegas Grupo Estevez SL, owners of Valdespino.
Known for its ultra-premium sherries and aperitifs, the historic bodega dates to 1264, and has been instrumental in bringing The Macallan even closer to sherry making and cask seasoning traditions—an essential part of single malt maturation.
For the best experience, focus on the complexity of The Macallan before you, he advises. “As you return to it time and again, you may even discover something new,” Kennedy encourages.
“When it comes to whisky drinking, we sometimes forget to create moments to enjoy. We’re always waiting for the right one. Seek out the right environment and company to truly experience whisky; don’t just collect bottles.”
He’s optimistic about a new chapter in The Macallan story, too: “We have a huge legacy to build upon; 1824 to today. That’s 201 years of history. I think we’re just getting started, and that makes me excited.”
