New Year’s Eve in the Southern Hemisphere is a little different. Instead of winter frost and ski chalets, there are beach bonfires and barbecues. This warm, outdoor rhythm sets the tone for The Macallan’s latest addition to its A Night on Earth (ANOE): The First Light series, now available in Singapore.
This is the fourth edition in the distillery’s ANOE line, an annual release inspired by New Year traditions around the world. For 2025, the spotlight shifts to New Zealand, one of the first countries to greet the sun each year. This first light symbolises renewal and serves as the foundation for a whisky shaped not just by heritage, but also inspired by change.
“This edition of ANOE is about light, its cultural symbolism and its sensory warmth,” says Russell Greig, Whisky Maker at The Macallan. “Inspired by traditions and rituals handed down from generation to generation, this whisky is designed to be gifted, shared, and enjoyed with friends and family.
As always, Speyside distilling makes The First Light unmistakably Macallan, and this one introduces a brighter, more playful side. Its lighter and fruitier profile is shaped by a careful selection of oak casks.
These consist primarily of sherry-seasoned American oak, known for imparting a soft sweetness and vibrant fruit notes, alongside European oak for depth and spice, as well as a small proportion of ex-bourbon American oak for its rich vanilla notes. The result is a whisky that evokes the sheer delight of summer desserts and the laid-back spirit of coastal holidays—rich in character, yet effortlessly enjoyable.
“The First Light evokes the soft sweetness of summer desserts and the relaxed nature of coastal holidays.”
Russell Greig, Whisky Maker, The Macallan
On the nose, you’ll find toasted marshmallows, berry compote, and a floral hint of New Zealand manuka honey. Then caramel, vanilla, stone fruit, a light spice note, and touches of oak make it taste more like a sumptuous pavlova than a fruitcake. So fitting for a Southern Hemisphere celebration.
Bottled at 43 percent ABV, this is a friendly whisky at $175, making it perfect for celebrations and gifting. Also as always, each edition of ANOE pairs The Macallan’s whisky with the visual expression of a local artist. In this case, Bonnie Brown, a Wellington-based illustrator, draws inspiration from memories of her family’s New Year rituals.
The packaging unfolds in three layers, each representing a moment in the New Year’s journey. The first reminds us of a glorious sunset bathed in golden light as well as summer evenings by the sea.
The second expresses celebration, capturing the vibrancy of shared meals, laughter, and music, as loved ones gather under open skies. The final layer reveals the first light of dawn—a powerful symbol of renewal—as the sun rises on a brand new year.
“When I created this artwork, it reminded me of my family’s New Year’s Day ritual—starting at the beach and swimming in the ocean. It’s a fond memory and a key part of our annual tradition,” she says.
“Having spent many summers on the coast, the design reflects the enjoyment of being outdoors all day. It embodies the Kiwi way of life I was raised with. This includes the weekends I spent exploring different parts of New Zealand with my mum and appreciating nature to the fullest.”
Brown’s illustrations wrap the packaging in warm colours and natural motifs. They capture a festive season that feels hopeful and grounded more in nature than in fireworks. As end-of-year celebrations in Singapore often blur festive traditions from both hemispheres, this serves as a timely reminder that a great time can be as simple as good company and a fine dram.
Whether enjoyed neat, with soda, or with a dessert (yes, pavlova works), The First Light is ultimately about cherishing precious moments spent with those you love.
The Macallan ANOE: The First Light is available at The Macallan House Singapore and select retailers. Discover more here.
