Macallan Rare Cask

I tried a small sample of this last night, and this is not quite a 98 for me. I'm generally wary of expensive, no-age-statement scotches. And, while this scotch wasn't a huge letdown, and in fact was pretty tasty, I would not buy a bottle for the $250-300 it demands. This is a classic Macallan sherried whisky. The distillery claims that a high proportion of the casks used are first-fill and, based on the scent, I believe it. There are clear, relatively pure notes of cherry, vanilla, sherry, and dry chocolate (kind of like the chocolate shavings or parts that are left after you've eaten most of a bar). I also sense some musty oak, so this certainly smells like an aged expression, not a young one, and older than 15 years on average. I even detect some brine or iodine, a note I more commonly find in Islay scotches. I'm not sure where it's coming from, but it's a surprising touch. The nose is the best part of this scotch. It tastes like graham cracker, again some sherry and cherry, hazelnut, raspberries and other rich, sweet berries, and some more chocolate. Again, oak spice indicates that the average age of this dram is significantly older than Macallan 12, so -- say what you will -- it's not scamming us too badly on the age. The palate doesn't impress as much as the nose, however. At the end, there are flavors of chocolate and dried fruits, particularly dates, and a bit of freshness from a mixture of mint and ginger. Look, this is a good whisky. It has a famous brand name. You can show the bottle off to your friends, family, and guests. Those facts all add some value, with the amount depending on the individual consumer's preferences. But, for me, there is such a wealth of sherried scotches with age statements and that cost less (GlenDronach 18, Dalmore 18, Balvenie 15 Sherry Cask, Glenfarclas 17), it's just hard to justify this price point.

Wow, very balanced. Gorgeous finish. Just a hint of sweetness.