TheNeonDram
Macallan Rare Cask
Single Malt — Highlands, Scotland
Reviewed
January 23, 2018 (edited August 26, 2018)
No other brand breaks my heart as much as Macallan. For me, it’s all about consistency. While they offer some great scotch, Rare Cask has some amazing elements, but essentially falls flat where it counts.
The highlight by far is the nose. Extremely rich, offering deep red hues and cherry. The sherry is expertly displayed. A moment later, vanilla accompanied by brown sugar, soil, citrus, and a brilliant vanilla fudge make their appearance with pristine elegance.
This is easily one of the smoothest scotches I’ve ever had. There delicious caramel and a medium to full bodied mouthfeel. There’s even hints of tide and a touch of salt. It’s quite enjoyable. Rare Cask has virtually no heat. I mean, it’s barely there at all. That makes it incredibly easy to sip, but... also kind of boring.
This is really good. That much is for sure. However, yet again, the “soul” of this dram seems to be missing. I mentioned as much with their Fine Oak 15 Year. How is something crafted so well missing this crucial element? It’s a true shame. In my opinion, this shifts it from being worth $300+, to being something I wouldn’t buy at $120. I expect some to disagree.
The finish is dry, lingering a bit but doesn’t stay all that long. The package is wrapped up in almond and oak on the tongue.
Should you try it if the opportunity presents itself? Absolutely. Just be aware that it may not be all you were hoping for.
(OoTB January)
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Great review. While I enjoy Mac as the next dr(e)amer, their ppv is tough to justify. That being said, they do command the price the Mac good will allows them to charge the price while the masses continue to purchase. That’s capitalism (and good for Mac that they can get their price). Sorry for steering this maybe where I was not planning. Anyway, great review! One usually does not go wrong with a Mac. (...and I exits stage left)
My pick for value and quality in the current range would be Amber or Sienna. The Amber is very affordable and has a juicy tropical fruit character. For about twice as much the Sienna turns everything up a couple of notches, has a richer dark-fruit focus, is at 43% abv and matured completely first-fill sherry casks. It has a lovely balance overall and is very "alive" - full of fruit and sherry and smooth as silk, but with character. I've reviewed both at length on Distiller.
@TheNeonDram - great review. I think if it’s heat you’re looking for (while retaining everything else you expect from Macallan) then I recommend the Classic Cut. It’s not as refined as Rare, but the sherry notes are still well represented and there’s plenty of heat (58.5%). Price point is also pretty good at $75-85 US. Cheers.
@cascode that seems to be the case for sure. I couldn’t agree more about other elements keeping pace with the nose. I’m willing to give Macallan another chance. Do you have any recommendations?
Good review, and yes it's overpriced by a fair margin, although I probably would buy it at $120. IMHO the best aspect of all modern Macallans is the nose - it's only when the palate, finish and body keep pace that they still achieve greatness.