The Macallan – Classic Cut 2025 (70cl, 50.6%)

Classic Cut 2025 is the annual cask strength release from The Macallan, in a 70cl bottle at 50.6% ABV. The whisky matured in sherry-seasoned European and American oak as well as ex-bourbon casks. It is meant to be tried at bottling strength first, then with a few drops of water. At 40% sweeter, creamy notes come forward, and further dilution brings out fresh apple and citrus. The nose shows orange and grapefruit zest, milk chocolate, caramel and panna cotta. The palate has grapefruit, mandarin, lemon meringue and almonds. The finish combines grapefruit and melon with warm oak spice.