Macallan Sienna 1824 Series

Aroma: Sweet sherry, overripe oranges with a spicy note, rose-hip tea, cantaloupe, sandalwood, vanilla, and caramelized apples dusted with cinnamon and barley sugar. Taste: A rich, velvety, and smooth entry, sweet like honey but with a balancing dryness from the oak. Abundant fruit flavors, especially blood oranges, dates, caramelized figs, sweet apples, sultanas, apricots, black cherries, and cranberries. Raspberry jam notes emerge. As it develops, a PX sherry character appears, followed by a rich Christmas fruitcake. Subtle background spices like cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and caraway complement the fruitcake, along with mixed peel and almonds. The texture is very full and coats the mouth. This is a remarkably pleasant fruity palate. Finish: Medium-long, fruity, and sugary sweet with lingering almonds and hazelnuts. Quite enjoyable. This bears resemblance to Macallan Amber, as expected, but possesses considerably more depth and maturity. Experiencing the entire 1824 series is key to understanding their increasing quality. The spirit itself is identical, but superior expressions benefit from extended aging in increasingly superior casks, with a greater proportion of first-fill casks. For instance, the palate here features a prominent berry and rich fruit profile, unlike the lighter citrus/tropical notes of the Amber expression or the very light, dry citrus of the Gold. Furthermore, the fruitcake notes in the palate are richer and unfold more gradually here, whereas in the Amber they are immediate and less developed, and in the Gold they are barely discernible, resembling yeasty bread. The overall profile is quite sweet but never cloying, lacking any hint of bitterness or sourness. It's a satisfying and accessible whisky, representing a successful example of modern Macallan's style. Like the Amber expression, it evokes a sense of summer, perfect for enjoying at dusk on a warm evening. "Very Good": 86/100 (4 stars)

I sampled several excellent scotches during an evening out. I began with Highland Park 12 and then requested a Macallan; the waitress chose a Macallan Sienna. It possessed a rich color and pronounced sherry characteristics. The alcohol content is perfectly balanced, and this is a delicious dram. I followed this with Highland Park 18. The aroma of Highland Park brings to mind the Harry P. Leu Rose garden in Orlando, Florida – a wonderful combination of floral and earthy notes; there's a specific spot in the rose garden that instantly evokes HP for me. The finish is delightful with a subtle spice. In essence, I am a fan. However, the Sienna has a superior aroma and better balance. The Sienna is very good. I was surprised to find that this Sienna costs C$190 here – that's a significant price. Do I recommend it? Absolutely. Would I pay C$190 for it? No, Highland Park 12 is the better choice when cost is a factor.

Aged 2 and 3 years - I enjoy the warmth. The nose is rich with caramel, plum, spice, apple, and elegant oak aromas. On the palate, you'll discover layers of figs, raisins, and dates with buttered toffee, vanilla, and ginger notes, followed by a warm, smooth, long finish. COLOR: Sienna. NOSE: Begins with a subtle, persistent yet not overpowering vanilla aroma. Orange emerges, becoming zesty and sharp, balanced by fresh green apples. Next are chewy, rich white chocolate truffles, accompanied by elegant oak notes suitable for after a meal. PALATE: Dates, figs, and raisins lead, then yield to nutmeg and ginger with hints of orange and apple, before vanilla re-emerges prominently. FINISH: The final impression is gentle, smooth, and warming.

I had high expectations for this drink, and upon opening the bottle, the aroma was so appealing that my hopes rose further. The palate was disappointing, and the finish was short. For $90 a bottle, I don't believe it's a worthwhile dram. Bottled at 43% ABV, with a sienna color (tawny) that occurs naturally, which is where this bottle gets its name. The nose is truly beautiful, with notes of sherry, caramel, syrup, candy, licorice, and some herbal undertones. The palate doesn't meet expectations; it's a harsh drink with licorice notes. The sherry flavor is too faint, the tobacco note is solid, and the most prominent flavor is ash, leading to a bitter, short finish. Overall, I rate this dram an 83 out of 100; it didn't live up to its marketing.

A very pleasant and smooth whiskey from Macallan, in many respects almost identical to the No. 2. Thanks to the sherry casks, you'll find a syrupy spirit with notes of clove and dried prune. Raisins and vanilla also tantalize your taste buds as it transitions into a finish that is regrettably too brief and easily forgotten. Nevertheless, it's good.

This was not as smooth as other Macallan expressions from the 1824 series. The Sienna has a noticeable bite. Its dark amber color complements the dark, bitter taste. 'Intense' is an apt description. If you are a dedicated Scotch drinker seeking a whisky with some edge, the Sienna might be for you.