Macallan 25 Years Old Signatory Vintage Symington’s Choice Cask 12/4 55% 1997

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Serge Valentin (93)

The whisky is almost as dark as the label! Here is a brand new range from Signatory, very high-end, with some pretty extraordinary names like Laphroaig, Bowmore, and indeed, Macallan. The prices seem high, but I'm sure it's worth it and not just marketing hype. At least it's not another NAS with a fancy name and story, straight from ChatGPT or Wikipedia. Colour: coffee. Nose: a pretty wonderful dry sherry, full of Havana tobacco, prunes, dried dates, old walnuts, and hoisin sauce, with an extraordinary fermentary and even slightly acetic side (old balsamic vinegar). We're a bit in the territory of a very old Ténarèze, or of the best of the Macallan 'Gran Reserva' from back in the day. With water: it becomes rather more elegant, almost slightly austere, with a very "grand chocolate from a great house" side. I always find it amusing to hear my Swiss, Belgian, Italian, Spanish or French friends claim that they make the best chocolates in the world. What if it were the Scots, perhaps even Scots from Pitlochry? Mouth (neat): creamy, goes down easily! Well, almost, there's still a lot of thickness, a syrupy texture, liquorice and pipe tobacco, a bit of tar, lots of dried prunes, Corinth raisins, precious molasses (if it existed), then peppermint and very chocolatey toffee... With water: it peacocks and goes fractal, with lots of spices, dried fruits, organic matter, and various old liqueurs. Alright, let's finish it, we don't have all day... Finish: long as a day without bread and indeed, rather on very damp pumpernickel, chocolate, and competition fruitcake (we have the winner). Comments: a real hit, after Signatory's sublime range of '30th Anniversary Bottlings' of three or five years ago. Come on, let's store it in its bottle for twenty more years to try to reach 95/100, then we'll talk about it again. What's sure is that this is Macallan as in 'Macallan', that is to say In compliance with what is written on the label of the bottle that follows...

BOW (93)

Macallan 25 Years Old Signatory Vintage Symington's Choice Cask 12/4: A Rare Gem for Whisky Connoisseurs

Whisky enthusiasts are always on the lookout for exceptional and rare expressions that embody the essence of craftsmanship and time. The Macallan 25 Years Old Signatory Vintage Symington's Choice Cask 12/4 is one such gem that captures the hearts of whisky connoisseurs worldwide. Distilled on September 24, 1997, and bottled on February 9, 2023, this extraordinary single malt whisky showcases the expertise and passion of independent bottler Signatory Vintage for their prestigious Cask Strength Collection Symington's Choice series.

What sets this whisky apart is its maturation in a first-fill Oloroso sherry butt. The influence of this premium sherry cask is evident in the rich and indulgent flavors that have developed over the course of 25 years. As you pour a dram of this liquid gold, you are immediately greeted by its deep amber hue, a testament to the cask's impact on the whisky's character.

On the nose, the Macallan 25 Years Old Signatory Vintage Symington's Choice offers a sensory journey like no other. A symphony of aromas unfolds, with notes of dried fruits, warm spices, and hints of oak. The sherry influence is unmistakable, adding layers of complexity and a delightful sweetness to the whisky's bouquet.

With each sip, the palate is treated to a luxurious and full-bodied experience. Flavors of rich toffee, dark chocolate, and dried fruits dance across the tongue, creating a harmonious symphony of taste sensations. The sherry butt's presence is felt throughout, infusing the whisky with a luscious sweetness and a hint of nuttiness that lingers on the palate.

The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a warm and lingering aftertaste that reminds you of the whisky's exceptional quality. It's a moment to savor and reflect upon the artistry and dedication that went into crafting this remarkable expression.

The Macallan 25 Years Old Signatory Vintage Symington's Choice Cask 12/4 is a true collector's item, cherished by whisky enthusiasts for its rarity and outstanding quality. Its limited availability and the meticulous selection of the cask make it a prized possession for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Whether you're a seasoned whisky aficionado or an adventurous explorer of flavors, the Macallan 25 Years Old Signatory Vintage Symington's Choice offers an opportunity to indulge in a piece of whisky history. Immerse yourself in the richness of this exquisite expression and discover the legacy of Macallan and the expertise of Signatory Vintage.