Macallan 2003/2023 20 Years Speymalt - Gordon & MacPhail
When a legend like Macallan meets the expertise of independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail, one thing is certain: the result has the potential to set new standards. The Macallan 2003/2023 Speymalt, a 20-years single malt, is no exception. At a whopping 58.30 % vol., this sherry bomb from Speyside is powerful and complex. But does it live up to its promise?
Tasting Notes
Nose
This whisky doesn't mince its words from the very first nosing. What emerges from the glass is a true sherry grenade. A heavy, almost dramatic combination of wet carpet, leather and tobacco meets the autumnal freshness of damp leaves. This is joined by the sweet darkness of burnt caramel. It is a fragrance that tells stories - smoky, earthy and deeply rooted in decades of ageing.
Palate
The true magic of this whisky unfolds on the tongue. The first thing you notice is a distinctive dryness reminiscent of a fine sherry. This is accompanied by an amazingly oily texture that takes over the entire mouth. The flavours are intense and clear: fig, rich and dark, is accompanied by earthy leather and bitter cocoa. There is no room for restraint here - this whisky has character and shows it.
Finish
The finish is the icing on the cake of this complex drop. It is long, as befits a whisky aged for 20 years, and has a lovely spiciness that finishes astringent and dry. But before it disappears, a slight fruity sweetness flashes through.
Thoughts
Marcel 88/100
This Macallan 2003/2023 is a true taste experience – intense, with a powerful sherry explosion that makes every sip exciting. It demands your attention but rewards you with a complex blend of spice, sweetness, and character that’s simply enjoyable. For connoisseurs seeking a whisky with bite and soul, this is a real bullseye!
Sascha 88/100
With its balanced structure of intense sherry notes, fine oak, and subtle fruity sweetness, the Macallan 2003/2023 showcases an impressive interplay of power and elegance. Despite the high 58.3% ABV, it is well integrated and offers a complex yet harmonious balance that guarantees both depth and a long-lasting finish.
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89/100Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Macallan 2003/2023 20-Year Speymalt from Gordon & MacPhail special compared to the original Macallan release?
The Macallan 2003/2023 was released by Gordon & MacPhail as an independent bottler and features a more intense cask strength at 58.3% ABV compared to many original releases. Additionally, its 20-year maturation in sherry casks imparts a particularly powerful and complex sherry character that is often more subdued in standard bottlings.
How does the 20-year maturation in sherry casks influence the flavor of this Speysider?
The extended maturation in sherry casks gives the whisky its intense sherry note with aromas of dried fruits like fig, dark caramel, leather, and cocoa. At the same time, it provides an oily texture and a complex, long-lasting finish with spicy and lightly fruity nuances.
What are the drinking recommendations for the Macallan 2003/2023 Speymalt with 58.3% alcohol content?
Due to the high alcohol strength, it is recommended to enjoy the whisky neat to fully appreciate its complex aromas. Those who wish to soften the sharpness can experiment with a few drops of water. This intense single malt also works very well as a digestif after a meal.