The Macallan: The Reach 81 years old

A monumental achievement in whisky history, The Macallan The Reach stands as the oldest single malt ever released by The Macallan — an extraordinary expression that bridges generations of artistry, resilience, and dedication. Distilled in 1940, during one of the most turbulent periods in modern history, and aged for 81 years in a single sherry-seasoned oak cask, this release embodies the patience and precision that define The Macallan’s legacy.

Only 288 bottles exist worldwide, making The Reach one of the rarest and most collectible whiskies ever produced.

A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship

Each bottle of The Reach is presented in an extraordinary display of Scottish artistry — a mouth-blown crystal decanter cradled by three sculpted bronze hands, created by acclaimed artist Saskia Robinson.

These hands symbolize the passage of time and the generations who brought this whisky to life:

• The first hand honors the distillery workers of 1940 who crafted the spirit during wartime hardship.

• The second hand belongs to Allan Shiach, former chairman of The Macallan, whose grandfather led the distillery when this whisky was first laid to cask.

• The third hand is that of Master Whisky Maker Kirsteen Campbell, who selected the cask and determined the perfect moment for its release.

Together, they hold the decanter aloft — a timeless tribute to collaboration, craftsmanship, and continuity.

Liquid History in Every Drop

Drawn from a single cask after more than eight decades of maturation, The Reach captures the very essence of time itself.

• Color: Deep, dark auburn — a natural hue developed over 81 years in sherry oak.

• Nose: A gentle smokiness intertwined with rich treacle, antique oak, dark chocolate, and molasses, balanced by soft notes of figs, leather, and nutmeg.

• Palate: Smooth and layered, revealing sweet smoke, dried fruits, toffee, and black treacle, accented by hints of polished oak and gentle spice.

• Finish: Exceptionally long, with lingering tones of sweet peat, antique wood, and faint citrus zest — a whisper of the past carried into the present.

• ABV: 41.6%

• Bottle Size: 700ml

Presentation Set Includes

1. Mouth-blown crystal decanter (The Macallan x Lalique collaboration)

2. Three bronze hands sculpture (Saskia Robinson)

3. Handmade wooden and leather display case

4. Collector’s booklet and provenance documentation

5. Luxury flight transport case on wheels

6. Certificate of authenticity and numbered edition

A Collaboration of Art & Sound

To honor this momentous release, The Macallan collaborated with Scottish band Mogwai, who composed an original musical score titled The Reach — a haunting, cinematic tribute to the whisky’s quiet evolution through time. The partnership reflects the harmony of creativity, passion, and heritage that defines this release.

Investment & Legacy

• Age: 81 Years Old

• Vintage: 1940

• Bottled: 2021

• Cask Type: Sherry-seasoned oak

• Region: Speyside, Scotland

• Distillery: The Macallan

• Total Bottles: 288 Worldwide

• Expert Rating: 92+/100

The Macallan The Reach is more than a whisky — it is liquid history, a masterpiece of endurance and artistry that connects the present to a defining moment in time. Whether displayed as a collector’s centerpiece or held as a long-term investment, it represents the pinnacle of Scotch whisky craftsmanship.