Whisky Review/Tasting: Macallan Speymalt 2006 Gordon & MacPhail

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Macallan Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Matured in high-quality casks selected by Gordon & MacPhail, with delicate sherry influences.
Age Statement: 9 years old (distilled in 2006 and bottled in 2015).
ABV: 43%.
Color: Dark golden, indicating a lighter sherry cask influence compared to older vintages.
Clarity: Uncolored, as is typical for Gordon & MacPhail bottlings.
Bottle Design: Traditional, with emphasis on the vintage (2006) and the independent bottler's branding.

Nose: Red apple, lemon, subtle beeswax aromas, with a hint of honey.
Palate: Peppery initially, evolving into ripe banana and orange zest flavors, complemented by a creamy milk chocolate finish. The second sip reveals sweeter red apples, more pronounced honey, and a transition from lemon to a sweeter orange.
Comparison: The peppery intensity is likened to Talisker but without the smokiness.

Independent Bottling: This Macallan is part of the Speymalt series by Gordon & MacPhail, an independent bottler with a stellar reputation in Scotland.
Series Diversity: The Speymalt series includes a range of Macallan vintages, showcasing the evolution of the distillery's expressions over time.

Sherry Cask Influence: The whisky reflects the changing trends in Macallan's use of sherry casks, with newer vintages showing less influence than older ones. This is a reflection of broader trends in Scotch whisky production and maturation.

"For the price, it's a wonderful whisky for a Macallan."
"We can be happy that Gordon & MacPhail has such a good relationship with Macallan that they are still receiving fresh casks."
"The second sip is so much better than the first one."

Independently bottled Macallan Speymalt from 2006 by Gordon & MacPhail.
Aged 9 years, 43% ABV, with a dark golden color.
Flavor profile includes peppery notes, ripe banana, orange zest, and a creamy milk chocolate finish.
Less sherry cask influence compared to older Macallan vintages.
Recommended to have two sips for a fuller appreciation of its complexity and harmony.
Noted for its value and the quality relationship between Macallan and Gordon & MacPhail.

For Scotch Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring the nuances of Macallan's evolution and the impact of sherry cask maturation over time.
For Value Seekers: Individuals looking for a high-quality Macallan expression at a more accessible price point.
For Flavor Chasers: Those who appreciate a complex flavor profile that evolves with each sip, especially fans of peppery and fruity notes without the influence of smoke.