When one mentions James Bond, the association that comes to mind is likely his impeccable fashion style, Aston Martin DB5 and The Macallan. This year, the James Bond movies celebrate its 60th anniversary, and in accompaniment of this special occasion, the Scotch whisky maker has debuted The Macallan James Bond 60th Anniversary Release. This is a collection of six limited-edition bottles inspired by each decade of the iconic 007 films. The distinctive packaging brings to life the creative development process of the franchise in a behind-the-scenes exploration of the James Bond archives.
As an MI6 agent, Bond is well-travelled and had the opportunity to try some of the finest things in life, from restaurants to drinks, particularly the Vesper Martini. But in his most recent adventures, Bond has picked The Macallan as his whisky of choice. The duo even shared the same silver screen as in the movie Skyfall, where the titular character indulges in The Macallan Fine & Rare 1962 as a homage to the spirit’s 50th anniversary. Apart from being co-stars in the film, Bond’s Scottish heritage also resonates deeply with that of the Speyside single malt whisky maker.
This series of six bottles have been created by The Macallan Master Whisky Maker, Kirsteen Campbell. References to James Bond are abound even the ABV, at 43.7 per cent, is a nod to his agent number 007, and this level is consistent throughout the collection. The expression, as a whole, has been expertly crafted to “exude a sense of style and maturity which has evolved over the years.” More importantly, the set telegraphs the story of innovation over 60 years and the pioneering spirit of James Bond and The Macallan.
The encased whisky comes in the shade of what The Macallan calls Suisse Gold, which is slightly lighter in colour than its popular The Macallan Sherry Oak 12-Year-Old. On the nose, citrusy notes of lemon and lime are first picked out, then it gives way to a melange of sweet scents like vanilla, coconut, dried fig and raisin. Taking a sip, one would notice orange zest and fizzy sherbet, while a subtle ginger spice slowly takes over the palate and morphs into a deep dark chocolate finish that lingers with complex layers.
Jaume Ferras, Global Creative Director for The Macallan, said: “This October, James Bond will celebrate its 60th anniversary, making it the longest-running and one of the most loved franchises in the world of entertainment, comprising 25 films over six decades and six lead actors over time. The Macallan is James Bond’s whisky of choice and as two renowned global brands, we share many synergies, most notably as modern innovators linked by our Scottish heritage.”
To celebrate this momentous occasion, The Macallan has planned a series of immersive experiences like a unique exhibition, The Macallan in Cinema, at The Macallan Estate, in which the viewers will embark on a journey to learn more about the distillery’s connection to the world of films and then transport them to the James Bond universe through a selection of movies from the series.
The Macallan James Bond 60th Anniversary Release will sell for S$1,388. Only selected decades will be available at The Macallan boutique at Raffles Hotel Singapore via registered interest from April 2023 onwards.
For those that aren’t able to get a bottle, the fourth decade of The Macallan James Bond 60th Anniversary Release will be available for tasting at selected establishments such as restaurant Born, Buona Terra, Alma, Republic Bar at Ritz Carlton, 67 Pall Mall (access to members only), Writers Bar at Raffles Hotel, The Chambers by Cask, and Quaich Bar Wanderlust.
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