When The Macallan 52 Years Old – 2018 Release was first released, the average retail price was approximately $53,500 USD, and now, about five years later, the average price is up to $175,000!

Here are the words from Sarah Burgess, The Macallan whisky maker, from a press release in 2019: “After being left to mature for fifty-two long years in one exceptional, hand crafted European oak sherry seasoned cask, this wonderfully rare single malt is full of rich spicy flavors and has a beautiful ruby mahogany natural color. Bottled at an ABV of 48% where all the flavors became perfectly balanced, The Macallan 52 years old is an outstanding addition to our expanding range of unique, classic-aged whiskies and is a testament to the harmony created through the mastery of wood and spirit. With only 250 individually numbered bottles available worldwide, this is a highly limited and expertly crafted release which will be desired by the world’s whisky lovers and luxury connoisseurs.”

In the world of whisky, to taste something this old and extraordinary is an experience akin to stepping into history.

Appearance

Pouring a dram of The Macallan 52 is like liquid gold cascading into the glass. A deep, burnished amber, the whisky gleams with the richness of decades spent resting in the finest sherry-seasoned oak casks. The legs are slow and luxurious, clinging to the glass like a fine oil.

Nose

On the nose, this whisky is nothing short of majestic. The first aromas are overwhelmingly rich, dominated by mature oak and dried fruits. Think raisins and dates, layered with an intense wave of dark, bitter chocolate. As you let the whisky breathe, additional notes emerge—soft leather, polished mahogany, and a hint of tobacco, transporting you to an old, stately library filled with antique books and time-worn wood. Beneath these robust elements, there’s a whisper of dried orange peel and rich molasses, adding a surprising brightness to the deep, aged complexity.

Every inhale feels like a journey through time, as the 52 years in oak reveal a stunningly intricate aroma profile that speaks to patience and craftsmanship.

Palate: First Sip

The first sip is an unforgettable experience. Velvety and luscious, it immediately envelops your palate in a wave of flavor that’s both bold and refined. The whisky opens with the rich, sweet influence of sherry: dried figs, sultanas, and a burst of dark treacle. These are beautifully balanced by an earthy undertone of old leather and rich, seasoned oak, imparting a sense of wisdom and elegance. As the whisky develops, there’s a gradual transition to bitter chocolate, roasted espresso beans, and a touch of black pepper, providing a complexity that unfolds with every moment.

Complexity

What makes The Macallan 52 so extraordinary is its balance. The interplay between the sweet and savory elements is masterful. The sweetness of sherry-soaked fruit and dark caramel is kept in check by the depth of oak tannins and subtle spice. Each layer builds upon the last—one moment, it’s dried fruit, and the next, it’s a rich, nutty flavor, like toasted walnuts dipped in chocolate. The whisky’s complexity is immense, yet it never feels disjointed or overwhelming. Instead, it’s as though every note has been meticulously composed, blending together seamlessly to create a symphony of flavor.

Finish

The finish is nothing short of legendary. Long and warming, it lingers with a rich mix of dried fruits, particularly dates and prunes, while echoes of old oak and dark chocolate reverberate on the palate. There’s a touch of spiced honey, adding a final sweet note as the whisky slowly fades away, leaving behind a sense of satisfaction that can only come from something truly special. Even after the last sip, the flavors remain etched in your memory, a reminder of the whisky’s timeless journey.

Overall Experience and Thoughts

Tasting The Macallan 52 Years Old is an experience that transcends the ordinary. This is not just a whisky—it’s a conversation with the past, a chance to savor the artistry that only time can achieve. Every sip tells a story, every aroma is a chapter, and by the end of the dram, you feel as though you’ve been part of something extraordinary.

If ever there were a whisky that exemplifies The Macallan’s legacy, this is it. 

It’s a rare privilege to experience a whisky of this age and caliber. If you ever had the fortune to sample this rare gem —I’d love to hear how this whisky has impacted your journey as a connoisseur.