A CELEBRATION OF THE WORLD OF COFFEE: The Macallan has unveiled the new expression, the second edition of The Harmony Collection, a limited annual release series driven by the brand’s inherent curiosity and its innovative mindset. A collection exploring The Macallan’s future packaging journey, each release features distinctive packaging that incorporates organic by-products and gives them new life.

The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired by Intense Arabica, the single malt whisky in this year’s release, celebrates the world of coffee and has been inspired by the Ethiopian Arabica coffee bean. The hybrid packaging was created using repurposed and recycled materials including coffee bean husks which would have otherwise been discarded.

The launch of the latest The Macallan Harmony Collection was celebrated on November 1st in Amsterdam at restaurant Taiko, where guests had a chance to get the first taste of the Harmony Collection at an intimate dinner. The Asian-inspired cuisine incorporating notes of coffee and whiskey was specially designed for the occasion.

The Macallan Whisky Maker Steven Bremner has created the intensely flavoured whisky to pair perfectly with coffee. He immersed himself in the art of coffee by hosting a masterclass with world-renowned coffee experts at The Macallan Estate. He explored the journey from field to cup, uncovering the unique process and distinct flavour profiles at each stage.

Photography CHANTALLE LAURENT

Among the coffee masters who shared their knowledge with Steven were Ethiopian coffee grower Kenean Asefa Dukamo, whose family works with the Arabica variety showcased by the whiskies; Scottish coffee roaster Lisa Lawson, a pioneer of speciality coffee in Scotland acclaimed for her roasting techniques; and award-winning American barista Andrea Allen, renowned for creating incredible coffee experiences. UK-based coffee artist Dhan Tamang crafted a range of coffee art, sharing his knowledge on the art of the perfect coffee serve and sensory perceptions, while leading coffee historian Professor Jonathan Morris, provided an insight into the roots of coffee and how it has become the global phenomenon it is today.

Photography CHANTALLE LAURENT

Drawing inspiration from the Arabica coffee bean from Ethiopia, renowned as the birthplace of coffee, Steven selected a harmonious combination of American and European oak casks to achieve the distinctive notes offered by the single malts. Inspired by Intense Arabica is reminiscent of a sweet yet strong espresso coffee and has a higher ABV of 44%. The whisky can be paired with coffee to provide a new way to savour The Macallan.

Steven Bremner, Whisky Maker at The Macallan, said: “Exploring the world of coffee with our masters in the industry, who shared their knowledge, creativity, and love for their art, was both an education and an inspiration. There are many parallels between the approach to creating incomparable whisky and coffee. Each requires unique skills and craftsmanship to achieve depth and complexity of taste and both worlds aim to deliver an extraordinary consumption experience.”

In homage to the coffee inspiration, the new expression is presented in a beautifully crafted presentation box, which incorporates repurposed coffee bean husks, a by-product of the coffee-making process. Paper expert Michele Posocco from Italian paper mill Favini worked with The Macallan to create the innovative packaging. The rich red pantone colour on the Inspired by Intense Arabica pack reflects the coffee fruit.

Photography CHANTALLE LAURENT

The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired by Intense Arabica will be available in a limited edition from November 2022 at upscale liquor stores and premium bars and restaurants around the world.

For further information visit https://www.themacallan.com.