How to Drink Macallan 18

Last Updated on: 26th April 2024, 05:29 pm

Discover the best way of drinking the Macallan 18: Ideas for tasting, pairing, and enjoying this supremely good Single Malt.

Written by: J Highland

Key Takeaways

• Sipping it neat at room temperature is recommended by Scotch expert Neil Coleman to fully appreciate its layered flavor profile.
• A Glencairn glass is suggested for a concentrated nosing experience.
• The whisky’s complex flavors include dried fruits, spices, dark chocolate, and a touch of clove.
• Due to its depth, it’s not ideal for cocktails; more budget-friendly alternatives are suggested for mixing.
• Food pairings like dark chocolate truffles, roasted almonds, and duck with berry sauce are recommended.
• Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Best Way to Drink Macallan 18

“Macallan 18 is best appreciated neat, at room temperature, allowing the layers of its intricate flavor profile to fully reveal themselves.”, states whisky expert, Neil Coleman.

Aged for 18 years, The Macallan stands as a testament to the mastery of whisky-making.

With its Sherry oak maturation from Jerez, Spain, it offers an enchanting blend of dried fruits, spices, and dark chocolate.

Its elegance and complexity make it a prime choice for moments of reflection or celebratory occasions.

This is my favorite 18-year-old whisky and one I can’t recommend enough.

Related: Discover the Best Macallan Whiskey

Adding Water

Generally, Scotch whisky benefits from a dash of water to bring out sweet notes.

However, with The Macallan 18, I find it unnecessary as it’s perfect as is.

If you’d like to try, add one drop at a time to find your preferred flavor.

Adding Ice

For those who lean towards a cooler sensation, opt for whiskey stones to gently chill Macallan 18 without diluting its essence.

Because of its rich body and complex flavors, it’s advisable to refrain from adding ice, as melting ice can dilute the whisky, diminishing its richness.

Glassware Selection

The Glencairn glass is a perfect companion for Macallan 18, focusing its broad aromatic range for a concentrated nosing.

However, a traditional whisky tumbler also serves well, offering a generous surface for the whisky to express itself.

Tasting Notes

The Macallan 18 presents subtle aromas of dates, raisins, oak, cinnamon, and a touch of clove.

On the palate, it boasts an oily, full texture with a dominant oak presence, accompanied by notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, dark chocolate, and raisins.

The long finish brings forth warming hints of tobacco, dark chocolate, and dark fruit flavors.

Cocktails

The Macallan 18 isn’t ideal for cocktails due to its complexity and depth, which can be lost when mixed.

Instead, consider using a whisky like Naked Malt, a blend of Macallan and Highland Park single malts.

It’s more affordable, making it a great choice for both mixing and budget-friendly sipping.

Pairing with Food

This Scotch pairs splendidly with:

• Dark Chocolate Truffles: Highlighting its cocoa notes.
• Roasted Almonds: Complementing its nutty undertones.
• Blue Cheese: Creating a delightful contrast with its mold and saltiness.
• Duck with Berry Sauce: The fruity sauce mirrors the dried fruit flavors of the whisky.

Storing the Bottle

Preserve the fine flavors of The Macallan 18 by:

• Storing upright.
• Shielding from direct light.
• Positioning in a temperate, shaded space.
• When nearing the end of the bottle, it’s recommended to enjoy it sooner to capture its full richness.

About Macallan 18

• The whisky has spent 18 years maturing in hand-picked oak casks from Jerez, Spain, previously seasoned with sherry.
• With roots in Craigellachie, Moray, Macallan stands as a beacon in the world of Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
• Since its inception in 1824, Macallan has been revered for its dedication to quality and craft.