The Macallan 2000 G&M Speymalt 21-Year Cask 1763
55.5% ABV - Speyside, Scotland
Nose: Ripe plum, dried fruit, sandalwood, oak, light orange citrus and warm spices. Stretch note of flint.
Taste: Powerful red fruits, fruit compote, Medjool dates, and ex-Sherry spices (nutmeg, cinnamon).
Finish: Dried fruits, dried plum and nectarine, slight oakiness, citrus and fading spices.
The Speymalt by the independent bottling company Gordan & MacPhail is a beast. I think that it is an amazing value whisky—especially when compared to the "official" 21-Year from Macallan which is easily double the cost, at retail pricing… and this is a single cask at cask strength! Absolutely great value.
It’s super rich and a classic Sherry bomb that is both lovely to sip on and to share. I’m lucky to have another waiting for me after this one is done, albeit a different cask. At the current rate of "evaporation" that changeover might be at the end of this year!
Details: Cask 1763, 248 Bottles. Bottled 2021.
Tasting Notes (Official): Sherry aromas with stewed raisins and brown sugar. The palate has fruitcakse, Medjool dates and baked apples. The finish is full and long lasting with roasted hazelnuts and spice.
Tasted 15 March 2023. (Posted 29 October 2023.)
95/100
Detailed Rating Information...
90+: Fantastic whisky; highly recommended.
My favourite whiskies – I might have more than one bottle if the price is right and the supply is limited! The higher values in this range will reflect a stronger balance and consistency between components.
85-89: Great whisky; recommended.
Whiskies that tick the flavour boxes and you'll likely hear about these from me. An easy decision to order at a bar/restaurant and one to consider buying a bottle of.
80-84: Very good whisky; recommended, but still consider trying before you buy.
Most of these whiskies I was really happy to have the opportunity to taste, but, apart from a dram here and there, I don’t think I would buy a bottle.
75-79: Good whisky; consider trying before you buy.
These are whiskies that I did enjoy drinking, but likely would reach for another bottle or select something different to order.
65-74: Average; consider trying before you buy, but not recommended.
There is nothing that stood out about this whisky and I might be inclined to mix it with soda or in a cocktail, instead of trying to enjoy its own flavours.
50-64: Bad; not recommended.
I didn’t like this and would sooner pass on another opportunity and order a beer instead than have it again… but never say never.
