I acquired this bottle for the first time as I was running low on my 18-year-old. I was keen to compare the two prominent selections directly. The Rare Cask offers a bit more boldness, a touch of spice yet remains smooth and mature. It presents a savory blend of plum, raisin, sherry, and spice. The dark fruits and aged leather harmonize beautifully in the mouth. The finish is rich and enduring. I found myself savoring the taste long after my glass was empty. The 18-year-old is more polished, slightly smokier, less spicy, and in my opinion, doesn't seem quite as aged. Both are exceptional, and I can understand arguments for either being the superior bottle. Ultimately, I favor the Rare Cask; it feels more adventurous and possesses a unique character that I appreciate.
Macallan Rare Cask Batch No.1 (2018 Release)
Whiskey Scotch Highlands No age statement 43% ABV
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About this bottle
The Macallan has updated and reissued the Rare Cask series, initially presented in 2014. This line will now distinguish between batch and yearly releases, with 2018 anticipating two additional offerings. Future years will offer four batches annually. The Rare Cask range utilizes both American and European oak sherry seasoned casks, a significant portion of which are first-fill. Each batch incorporates single malt derived from around 50 sherry butts. The Macallan Rare Cask Batch No.1 (2018 Release) became available starting in September 2018.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 3 parsed reviews.
gentle sherry, ripe berries, young wood, and a hint of nuttiness move from the aroma to the taste, ending in a medium-length finish.
Full, smooth, with notes of plum.
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