The Macallan has announced two premium single malts, inspired by visionary Scottish architect and artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Referencing Mackintosh’s 1902 lecture, ‘Art is the flower, life is the green leaf’, The collection comprises Art is the Flower and the ultra-rare The Tree of Life.

Each whisky is distinct in age, composition, and presentation, honouring Mackintosh’s legacy through cask, wood, and spirit.

It’s worth noting that the Charles Rennie Mackintosh Society played a key role in curating this collaboration, giving it both aesthetic and historical integrity. A series of short documentary-style films, featuring artists like Christopher Kane and historians from the society, extend the storytelling beyond the glass.

The Macallan The Tree of Life – A poetic tribute

The rarest of the pair, limited to just 112 Lalique decanters, The Tree of Life by The Macallan, is a 46-year-old single malt drawn from just two sherry-seasoned oak casks, both laid down in 1979. These casks matured quietly in Speyside for over four decades before being brought together in a whisky that is, by all measures, rarefied.

With an ABV of 46.2%, the whisky is housed in a crystal decanter, topped with a sculptural rose stopper inspired by Mackintosh’s stained glass work. The decanter itself sits within an ornate metal framework, a nod to the stylised ironwork that once adorned the architect’s buildings.

Tasting notes report charred tropical fruit, antique oak, zesty citrus, soft vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg, on the nose, with subtle peat smoke, rich dark chocolate, layered tropical fruit, oak and spice on the palate. The finish is said to be long, aromatic and complex.

With an ABV of 46.2%, the whisky is housed in a crystal decanter, topped with a sculptural rose stopper inspired by Mackintosh’s stained glass work…

The Macallan Art is the Flower – sherry-soaked homage

While the 46-year-old commands attention for its rarity, Art is the Flower is no mere companion piece. Crafted from sherry-seasoned European oak casks chosen from across The Macallan’s vast stocks, the whisky boasts a rich, full-bodied character. Bottled at 50.4% ABV, it boasrs heft and structure, with multi-layered aromas and flavours.

According to Whisky Maker Steven Bremner, the team had full rein over The Macallan’s formidable inventory, selecting only those casks that had “reached their peak.”

Says Bremner, “European oak was key, as it delivers both boldness and finesse, exactly what we needed to reflect Mackintosh’s legacy.”

The series features artists, architects, and historians, exploring Mackintosh’s influence on their work, including renowned fashion designer, Christopher Kane. Kane, inspired by Mackintosh during his time at The Glasgow School of Art, reflected this in his 2018 Resort Collection, which used motifs from art and nature from Mackintosh’s Hill House in Helensburgh, Scotland.

Stuart Robertson, Director of The Charles Rennie Mackintosh Society, who collaborated on the project, commented: “Mackintosh had a unique style that continues to influence artisans and global projects even today, and The Charles Rennie Mackintosh Society was delighted to collaborate with The Macallan on this new collection – a true collaboration of art, whisky and poetry, inspired by The Spirit of the Rose.”

Both expressions build on The Macallan’s rich history of creative collaborations, having previously partnered with leaders in fashion, art and gastronomy. This new launch celebrates the harmonious blend of whisky craftsmanship and artistic expression, showcasing The Macallan’s commitment to honouring cultural heritage whilst pushing the boundaries of creativity. 

More information on The Tree of Life By The Macallan is available at www.macallan.com