Macallan The Harmony Collection Rich Cacao

There's a rather new Macallan collection. It's the number 126 released this month, hah. Seriously though, Macallan has launched numerous new expressions lately, likely more than any other distillery. The Harmony Collection is an eco-conscious line of bottlings, with packaging and labels made from reclaimed cocoa and coffee husks. This is my third review from this series, the Macallan Rich Cacao. It was created in partnership with a renowned pastry chef, who has earned a Michelin Star. It's bottled at 44% ABV. On the nose, there's significant sherry influence. Notes of cherries, red fruits, hazelnut, and milk chocolate are present, along with strawberries, red berries, and chocolate. After a few sips, the aroma revealed cinnamon and clove. On the palate, it's good, but not exceptional. Flavors of red fruits, hazelnuts, and almonds are detected, along with subtle dark chocolate. After the initial taste, it transformed into maraschino cherries and tiramisu. The aftertaste is spicy and slightly improved. Hints of salt, ginger, bitter dark chocolate, and macerated fruit liqueur. Overall, this is a better-than-average whisky. However, like many Macallans, it might be more prudent to buy and hold it rather than drink it, as its value increases significantly for a somewhat mediocre spirit. It's even more surprising that this observation isn't widely contested now. Many recognize that Macallan has recently released "substandard" single malts that are easy to consume and may appeal to some brand followers, but it's increasingly challenging to impress other whisky aficionados. My rating is 88 out of 100, which is respectable, but it also suggests that superior single malts are available at a lower cost.

It was good Not great Sherry on the nose Personally, I prefer a scotch with a prominent sherry finish, and that didn't carry through to the palate and finish as I had hoped. The chocolate notes were quite faint in my view. For a genuine chocolate-forward drink, I enjoy Bourbon county Stout. There was ample fruit and balance. Nothing here particularly impressed me, as I was anticipating/hoping for a more distinct sherry/chocolate profile... therefore, in my opinion, it falls slightly short. A score of 3.75/5 is too low. A score of 4/5 might be too high. Since there's no option for an intermediate score, by default, it's a 4/5.

I was fortunate to get two bottles. The store only received 10. This is among the better limited releases from Macallan in recent years. Chocolate notes are present throughout, with a balanced spice that isn't overwhelming, leading to a smooth finish. I expect this to become a collector's item, so if you find one, buy two. I wouldn't spend over $200 for it, and it's already fetching $300+ as the production volume is unknown but clearly limited, suggesting the price will climb. Enjoy!!

One of the finest Macallan releases in a considerable period. Captivating and delightful. Pronounced notes of very dark chocolate, dates, roasted nuts, caramel, and subtle vanilla. Best enjoyed neat alongside dark chocolate. However, a little chilled water will unlock honey notes and yield a lighter profile. An absolute recommendation for whisky aficionados or novices.

So much chocolate! Rich fudge, ripe plum, and dark chocolate all meld together in an opulent explosion. It's not super intricate, but it achieves its goal beautifully: a decadent treat. Similar to JW Platinum, but superior. I would have preferred a more extended finish to linger with. An excellent after-dinner pour.

The cacao is immediately apparent! Aromas of sherry, florals, a whisper of moss, ripe apple, and distinctly cacao. The palate offers cream, honey, and cacao; it's sweet but not fruity. The finish endures, possessing an oily character.