The Macallan Classic Cut 2018 Limited Edition Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml

The Macallan Classic Cut 2018 Limited Edition is the second annual release in the Classic Cut series, matured exclusively in hand-picked sherry seasoned oak casks from Jerez, Spain, and bottled at a higher natural strength to reveal what the label describes as "the extraordinary character of a timeless spirit." The Classic Cut concept was designed to present Macallan in a different register from the standard range: an NAS expression bottled at higher proof, with natural colour, no chill filtration, and an emphasis on the undiluted sherry cask character rather than the more restrained elegance of the age-stated expressions. The 2018 edition was bottled at 52.2% ABV, delivering a richer and more intense version of the Macallan sherry profile than the standard diluted releases while retaining the natural colour and unfiltered character that allow the full Jerez cask influence to come through. The label confirms the tasting note as "Citrus, Sweet Vanilla, Spice," reflecting the lighter and more citrus-forward character that distinguishes the 2018 edition from the inaugural 2017 release. Presented in Macallan's signature red and gold textured box with natural colour confirmation. A now-discontinued limited annual release that is a genuine back vintage collector acquisition for Macallan enthusiasts.

ABV / Proof

Tasting Notes

Color: Bright natural gold with warm amber tones, lighter than the Sherry Oak expressions and reflecting the particular cask selection for the 2018 edition

Nose: Fresh and vibrant at higher proof, with citrus zest, sweet vanilla, dried apricot, cinnamon, and a lively sherry sweetness that is more energetic and less weighty than the standard age-stated range. Non-chill filtered character adds texture and presence.

Palate: Rich and full at 52.2%, with orange zest, vanilla cream, toasted oak, warming spice, and a bright sherry sweetness that carries the Jerez cask character at full natural strength. Water reveals additional citrus and honeyed depth.

Finish: Medium to long, with spice, dried citrus, vanilla, and a warm oak fade that confirms the quality of the sherry cask selection and the benefit of higher-proof bottling.

FAQ

What is the Macallan Classic Cut series?
Classic Cut is an annual limited release series from Macallan that presents the distillery's sherry cask character at higher natural proof with no chill filtration and natural colour. Each year's edition is bottled at a different ABV reflecting the character of that year's cask selection, making every vintage a distinct and unrepeatable expression. The 2018 edition is the second release in the series, following the inaugural 2017.

How does Classic Cut 2018 compare to Classic Cut 2017?
The 2017 inaugural Classic Cut was bottled at 58.4% ABV with a darker and more intensely sherried character. The 2018 edition is bottled at 52.2% ABV and presents a lighter, more citrus-forward profile as confirmed by the label notes of "Citrus, Sweet Vanilla, Spice." Each year draws from different cask selections and reflects a genuinely different character.

Why is natural colour important for Classic Cut?
Natural colour means the golden amber of the 2018 edition comes entirely from the sherry seasoned Jerez casks in which it matured, with no caramel colouring added. The lighter colour of the 2018 edition versus the darker Sherry Oak expressions is a direct expression of the specific cask selection chosen for this vintage.

Where can I buy The Macallan Classic Cut 2018 online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.