The Macallan, in partnership with Bentley Motors, has launched the first edition of The Macallan Horizon for the Portuguese market. This exclusive and unique whisky blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge precision engineering technology. This limited-edition release features an innovative bottle with a 180-degree twist, symbolizing the horizontal trajectory of the automotive industry.
The launch date coincides with The Macallan’s 200th anniversary and celebrates a collaboration based on a shared vision of unwavering excellence between these two leading luxury brands. The Macallan Horizon is the first product developed in collaboration with Bentley Motors, combining the expertise of exceptional single malt whisky with extraordinary automotive design.
The idea for the launch arose after extensive collaboration between The Macallan and Bentley Motors. In homage to The Macallan’s Six Pillars, which are the foundation of its rich spirit, six essential materials were incorporated to represent The Macallan, Bentley Motors, and their innovation-based partnership.
The Macallan Horizon is presented in a unique, custom-designed glass bottle, a material that is intrinsic to both The Macallan and Bentley. Designed to be displayed horizontally, it challenges the norms of traditional whisky bottling. An aluminum ribbon wraps around the glass, precisely designed to Bentley’s rigorous standards, paying tribute to this essential material used in Bentley’s sculptural base and car bodywork.
The bottle is encased in a sculpture lined with low-carbon leather, skillfully crafted in a brown hue, offering an exquisite finish while protecting the precious whisky. The recycled copper structure was meticulously designed and includes copper from the stills previously used by The Macallan before the opening of its internationally recognized distillery in 2019.
Another emblematic material of both brands is showcased through an oak inlay on the bottle’s closure, crafted from one of the six barrels used in the maturation of this whisky, inspired by the aesthetics of the Bentley Drive Dynamic Control’s rotary dial. The sculpture is finished with Bentley’s Crown Cut Walnut veneer, a specification carefully developed for its vehicles. The sixth and final component is the sophisticated and bold single malt Scotch whisky, created exclusively for The Macallan Horizon.
Meticulously crafted by Kirsteen Campbell, The Macallan’s Master Whisky Maker, from six first-fill oak barrels seasoned with sherry, the whisky was designed to capture the essence of a Bentley. Six individual casks were selected from stocks aging in The Macallan Estate’s warehouses. Skillfully combined, each barrel contributes distinct characteristics to The Macallan Horizon.
The rich and pleasing notes of dried fruits and spices strike a wonderful balance with oak and leather, aromas abundant in the Bentley universe. The whisky’s rich and lasting finish reflects the quality and timeless design of the car, resulting in a true sensory experience through taste and texture.
To celebrate this remarkable collaboration, culminating in the innovative launch of The Macallan Horizon, an exclusive dinner was held on September 19, 2024, at The One Palácio da Anunciada, located in the heart of Lisbon. This event, reserved for a very select group of guests, of which F Luxury was part, was carefully designed to reflect the elegance and innovation that characterize both The Macallan and Bentley.
The event began with a reception in the Palácio’s Gallery Room, where guests were welcomed with a cocktail inspired by the flavors of The Macallan, meticulously prepared to highlight the essence and sophistication of Scotch whisky. The intimate and refined atmosphere, enriched by the historic architecture of the Palácio da Anunciada, created the perfect setting for the start of a memorable evening.
This was followed by a carefully curated tasting dinner that featured a menu harmoniously paired with a trio of exceptional João Portugal Ramos Wines: Vinha da Rosa Rosé 2023 and Quinta Foz de Arouce Branco 2021, both in Magnum format (1.5L), and Marquês de Borba Reserva Tinto 2027 in Double Magnum. Filipa Portugal Ramos herself treated guests to the characteristics, stories, and authentic people behind these wines. Additionally, two other expressions of The Macallan were served: A Night On Earth in Scotland 2023 and a toast with The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 Years Old.
Throughout the evening, participants had the opportunity to witness firsthand the fusion of values that The Macallan and Bentley represent — tradition, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. The presentation of The Macallan Horizon was the highlight of the event, showcasing innovations in sustainable design and craftsmanship, reflecting a commitment to excellence and respect for legacy, intrinsic to both the whisky brand and the renowned car manufacturer.
The exclusivity of this dinner at the Palácio da Anunciada served as a unique platform to demonstrate the spirit of collaboration between these two premium brands, offering guests a unique sensory experience that went beyond traditional tasting and opened a new chapter in contemporary luxury.
The Macallan Horizon is a limited edition release, available only in 70cl. It will be accessible at The Macallan Estate Boutique and through the global network of domestic and travel retail boutiques, as well as premium retailers. In Portugal, its distribution is exclusive to Empor Spirits S.A.
