Ah, Macallan Concepts, a topic that excites the whisky enthusiast in me. To answer your question, there are three Macallan Concepts in total. Each release in the series is a unique expression, showcasing the innovative and creative side of this renowned distillery.
1. Macallan Concept 1:
Let's start with the first release in the series, Macallan Concept 1. This expression was launched in 2018 and aimed to challenge traditional perceptions of whisky. The concept behind it was to create a whisky that would push boundaries and break away from the norm. The result was a rich and complex single malt with a higher than usual ABV (alcohol by volume) of 40.8%. It was matured in a combination of European and American oak casks to develop a unique flavor profile. I remember tasting this expression and being impressed by its boldness and the way it deviated from the classic Macallan style.
2. Macallan Concept 2:
Moving on to the second release in the series, Macallan Concept 2 was unveiled in 2019. This expression took inspiration from the world of music and aimed to create a sensory experience that would resonate with both whisky and music lovers. The concept behind this release was to explore the influence of sound on the maturation process of whisky. Macallan collaborated with renowned DJs and sound experts to create a unique sonic maturation environment for a selection of casks. The resulting whisky was a harmonious blend of flavors, with notes of vanilla, chocolate, and dried fruits. Personally, I found this release to be a fascinating exploration of the relationship between art forms and how they can influence each other.
3. Macallan Concept 3:
We come to the third and final release in the series, Macallan Concept 3. This expression was introduced in mid-2021, and I must say, it has generated quite a buzz in the whisky community. While I haven't had the opportunity to taste it yet, the concept behind it is intriguing. Macallan Concept 3 aims to celebrate the vibrant and diverse world of photography. The distillery collaborated with world-renowned photographers to capture the essence of the whisky-making process in stunning visuals. This release promises to be a visual feast, with each bottle featuring a different photograph that encapsulates a specific aspect of Macallan's heritage and craftsmanship.
The Macallan Concept series consists of three distinct releases, each with its own unique concept and approach. From pushing boundaries with Concept 1 to exploring the influence of music with Concept 2 and now celebrating the art of photography with Concept 3, Macallan has demonstrated its commitment to innovation and creativity. I look forward to experiencing the third release and seeing how it captures the spirit of whisky through the lens of photography.