Macallan The Harmony Collection Smooth Arabica

Macallan has introduced another limited collection for travel retail, already fetching four times the price on the secondary market. The Harmony collection comprises four single malts: Smooth Arabica and Intense Arabica (coffee-themed), plus Rich Cacao and Fine Cacao (chocolate-themed). All are 40% abv and eco-friendly, with packaging made from discarded coffee and cocoa husks. I sampled the Smooth Arabica, hoping for a coffee profile. The nose presented classic Macallan notes: Snickers, Milky Way, Toblerone, old apples, sawdust, toffee, and hazelnut – very nutty, as expected, along with plums and dates. The aroma was fresh but faded after the first sip. The palate offered a refined, elegant vanilla, rum and raisin ice cream, sawdust, and a smooth, oily vanilla. Cappuccino and distinct coffee bean notes were present – quite nice. The aftertaste was a perfect bitter espresso with hay, evoking a normal cup of coffee. Overall, Macallan misses the mark on a top-tier whisky again, but this expression does deliver a coffee aroma and taste, fulfilling its namesake. While they achieved their goal, it won't impress anyone. It's not a bad whisky, but the mediocre nose detracts. If found at duty-free for under $200, buy it and age it; it will likely increase in value. For similar money, a Glendronach would be a better choice. My score is 86/100.

A little rough on the tongue. Hints of toffee linger at the end. Not my top pick