Macallan Archival Series Folio 2

It's not often I have the chance to experience a high-end Macallan. Though I've previously stated I'm not a big fan of this distillery, I must admit I was quite eager to try this whisky. Macallan Folio #2 is the second in a collection of 24 special Macallan Whiskies, celebrating one of the distillery's most successful advertising campaigns. I had the opportunity to sample it at the bar within the distillery itself, mere steps from the copper pot stills. A sophisticated setting for a sophisticated whisky. In fact, it was incredible. I later looked it up and discovered its extremely high price tag, ranging from $900 to $3000 depending on the retailer. Alright, time for the rating! Presented at 43% ABV with a chestnut hue. The bottle has a beautiful, vintage aesthetic (it was actually released in 2017, with only 2000 bottles produced). On the nose: Almonds, maraschino cherries, tobacco, strawberry preserves, red fruits, orange syrup, brown sugar, and aged caramel. It requires some time to open up, so let it breathe. Hints of lemon emerge after the initial taste. Wonderfully complex, this is exactly what an upscale dram should deliver. On the palate, red fruits and orange peel are present. It's very smooth, although it feels a bit diluted, mostly like watered-down maraschino cherry syrup. Truly excellent. The aftertaste is exceptional. The finish is delightful, appearing unexpectedly. It's reminiscent of burning hay. Smoky, with notes of tobacco and brown grass in the finish. Very pleasing. The mouthfeel is truly remarkable. This is a magnificent dram, and perhaps I'm holding back the perfect score due to its cost and my personal biases, but it is genuinely, exceptionally good. 97 out of 100. I would recommend it, but its rarity makes it a bit impractical. Cheers!