Macallan The Harmony Collection Intense Arabica

The second release in a limited-edition series focused on sustainable packaging, drawing maturation inspiration from the flavour of dark roast coffee.¹

Historical Context

The Macallan Harmony Collection is an innovative, limited annual release series launched in 2021.² The central theme of the collection is sustainability and the exploration of flavour combinations inspired by nature and other sensory experiences. The first release, Rich Cacao, focused on chocolate; the second, Intense Arabica, explores the world of coffee.

This 2022 release builds upon Macallan's reputation for exceptional cask management. The brand, historically famous for its sherry oak focus, utilizes its vast network to source and season high-quality oak casks. For the Intense Arabica, the whisky maker selected a blend of European and American oak sherry-seasoned casks to achieve a rich, tannic, and dark fruit profile that mimics the depth and intensity of a dark-roast arabica coffee bean.

Beyond the liquid, a significant technical aspect is the packaging. The presentation box is innovative, crafted from recycled and repurposed discarded coffee bean husks, aligning with the sustainability and thematic goals of the Harmony Collection. These releases are positioned at a premium price point, targeting collectors and whisky enthusiasts who value the convergence of theme, quality, and the Macallan name.

Technical Specification & Variant Map

This Single Malt is defined by its cask influence and unique presentation strength.

• Cask / Maturation: The use of both European and American oak sherry-seasoned casks is a deliberate choice. The European oak contributes spice and structure, while the American oak contributes vanilla and sweetness. The sherry seasoning provides the deep colour and dark fruit notes necessary to achieve the "coffee" flavour profile.
• ABV: Bottled at 44% ABV, which is slightly above the standard 43% and 40% bottling strengths, a choice likely made to preserve flavour intensity while maintaining approachability.
• Packaging Material: The use of discarded coffee bean husks in the box is a unique technical and environmental feature.

Packaging & authenticity checklist

The packaging is central to the identity and value of this release.

• Presentation Box: The box must be present and in excellent condition. It is a key authenticity marker, made from repurposed coffee bean husks, which gives it a specific texture and colour.
• Labelling: The label clearly states "The Harmony Collection Inspired By Intense Arabica" and the 44% ABV strength.
• Fill Level: Should be perfect (Into Neck) for a recent bottling.
• Common Pitfalls: The box's material (coffee husks) may be more fragile than standard cardboard. Any significant damage to the box reduces the collectable value significantly.

Regulatory/terminology notes

• Sherry Seasoned: This term indicates that the oak casks held sherry for a period to impart flavour compounds before being used for the whisky, a core Macallan practice.
• Single Malt Scotch Whisky: Confirms production at Macallan from malted barley.
• Chill-filtered/Caramel Colouring: Although bottled at 44% ABV, the NCF status is Not stated by the producer, and Macallan is generally known to add caramel colouring to its NAS and core expressions for consistency, though this fact is Not stated by the producer for the Harmony Collection.

Liquid Profile (from verifiable notes)

The profile is rich, dark, and complex, designed to evoke the notes of a high-quality coffee or rich dessert.

Nose: Rich aromas of tiramisu, cappuccino, almonds, and sweet oak. Dark chocolate and ginger notes provide depth and spice.

Palate: Medium to full body. Strong flavours of espresso, dark dried cherry, raisins, and vanilla bean. The 44% ABV delivers a gentle warmth, supported by a creamy, slightly tannic oak structure.

Finish: Long, sweet, and moderately dry. Lingers with notes of dark chocolate, oak spice, and a coffee-like bitterness.

With water: Not stated by the producer. Given the 44% ABV, adding water is not necessary. The profile is intended to be enjoyed neat to fully appreciate the complex, sherry-driven intensity.

Pricing & Market Dynamics (GBP)

The market is driven by Macallan's blue-chip status and the collectable nature of the limited series.

Original RRP (GBP): Not stated by the producer. Estimated to have been in the £150 - £200 range upon release.

Current UK retail range (GBP, incl. VAT): £289.90 - £499.90 (Specialist retail listings, showing significant mark-up from original RRP).

Recent UK/EU auction range (GBP, hammer): £250.00 - £350.00 (Typical hammer price range).

Pricing stratification: Prices are determined by the series' collectability. The Intense Arabica trades slightly lower than the first release (Rich Cacao) but significantly higher than core range Macallans of a similar age.

FX note: Conversion from Euro to GBP based on retailer listings is not used.

Liquidity & sourcing note: Liquidity is moderate and consistent. Sourcing is via secondary markets and specialist retailers.

Sourcing

Buyers should target bottles with a pristine box made of the coffee bean husks, as the packaging is a high component of the value.

Red flags to avoid include any box damage or listings without a picture of the unique packaging.

Fill level should be excellent (Into Neck).

Margin expectations are high, as the secondary market price is significantly inflated from the original retail price. Velocity is fast.