The Macallan – Phoenix Honey Orchid Tea (The Harmony Collection) (70cl, 43.9%)

This is the fifth edition of The Macallan Harmony Collection, inspired by Phoenix Honey Orchid, an oolong tea selected by JING. It is bottled at 43.9% in a 70cl bottle. Most of the whisky matured in American oak casks previously seasoned with sherry for 18 months, which gave peach and floral notes alongside a honeyed richness. European oak casks, also sherry-seasoned for 18 months, add depth and a touch of tannin. A modest share of ex-bourbon casks contributes sweetness. The nose is summery, with peaches, apricots, blossom honey, tropical fruit, toffee and sweet oak. The palate brings peaches in syrup, warm citrus and toffee, with light floral touches fading into a gentle herbal astringency. The finish is fruity, sweet and complex.