Edrington Group brand The Macallan has released the final edition in its Golden Age of Travel series – a collaboration with French master crystal maker Lalique – exclusively into global travel retail.
The Macallan 1940 (35 Years Old) is the expression contained within a handcrafted Lalique crystal decanter. It features illustrations of a major development from the 1930s Golden Age of Travel era in the form of the first civil air transportation machine.
A limited edition of 48 individually-numbered decanters will be available at The Macallan Boutiques in travel retail from this month. Two further decanters are to be kept for The Macallan and Lalique archives.
Each decanter – with an RRP of US$50,000 – is encased within a premium leather presentation box created by leather masters Piñavall in Ubrique, Spain. In keeping with the Golden Age of Travel theme, the box evokes design elements of classic 1930s travel trunks.
Launched in 2015, the Golden Age of Travel series has already seen the Macallan/Lalique cruise liner, aeroplane, steam train and motor car editions.
Lalique Chairman and CEO Silvio Denz said: “The glamorous Golden Age of Travel is one which is synonymous with Lalique and its founding father, René Lalique, who created some of his finest works that now define the era including glass lighting decoration for the Normandie ocean liner’s dining room and the beautiful glass panels in the ‘wagon présidentiel’ on the Orient Express train in the 1930’s.
“We are honoured to have worked with The Macallan on this series, creating unique work of the finest quality and technical complexity. The last in the series, this is a true tribute and an invitation to a Golden Age of Travel.”
Commenting on the encased liquid, The Macallan Whisky Maker Polly Logan said: “The Macallan 1940 is an exceptional liquid that is testament to The Golden Age of Travel, and the period of glamour and style it represents.
“The first reveal of the character of the whisky comes through the antique oak colour, and on the nose an atmospheric smoked oak with a richness of orange oil and dried fruits, exquisitely balanced with a beautifully light floral note of spring blossoms. Beyond this initial delight, smoked oak features on the palate with elements of opulent dark chocolate and orange, with just a hint of sweet ginger.
“The finish is long and lingering, like the memories of the passengers that travelled during this era, reliving the experience in all its glory.”
