The Macallan Amber, a single malt matured in oak sherry casks, has been named whisky of the year by leading drinks retailer The Whisky Shop.
It was selected from The Whisky Shop’s range of over 300 whiskies based on a combination of customer choice, sales and recommendations from managers at its 22 stores.
The Macallan Amber was introduced earlier this year as part of The 1824 Series which showcases the wood and natural colour of the spirit.
The Macallan whisky maker Bob Dalgarno created four expressions for The 1824 Series by identifying the natural colour formed during maturation in different cask types. The other expressions are Gold, Sienna and Ruby, all using names that reflect the actual colour of the whiskies.
Ken Grier, director of malts at The Macallan’s owner Edrington, said: “Amber is the second expression in our new 1824 Series of four single malts and is the perfect combination of two of the most influential factors which make this single malt whisky amongst the most distinctive and desirable, namely sherry-seasoned oak casks and natural colour.
“The Macallan Amber, by name and appearance, boasts a floral, citrus and sweet vanilla nose with hints of toffee apple, cinnamon and ginger, finishing with soft fruits and subtle oak lingering.
“This recognition is testimony both to this innovative approach to whisky making of taking colour as the basis for shaping these whiskies, and to the long experience of our whisky maker, Bob Dalgarno.
“As some 60% of the aroma and flavour of The Macallan derives from the oak maturation casks, Amber truly demonstrates the critical role of our exceptional casks.”
Andrew Torrance, managing director of The Whisky Shop, added: “Although it was only launched earlier this year, The Macallan Amber has already established itself as one of our leading single malts.
“Our whisky of the year is voted for by our customers as well as our knowledgeable store managers, which underlines the impact of this new addition to The Macallan range and The Macallan Amber is a highly deserving winner of our whisky of the year 2013.”
Previous winners of the award, which is now in its seventh year, are Jura Superstition, Dalmore 12 year old, Laphroaig Quarter Cask, Auchentoshan 12 year old, Bowmore 12 year old and Bunnahabhain 12 year old.
