The Macallan brought its Raise The Macallan event to the historic Alfred I. Dupont building in downtown Miami and the ID2T crew was excited to be invited to this private whisky tasting.  Even though it was a rainy night in Miami, it did not dampen the spirits of the many guests that filled the space with excitement and anticipation.  Upon entry, guests walked into a very dark room (too dark!) with various Macallan stations situated around the room as well as a bar at the far end.  Each station had different information and facts about The Macallan and The Macallan tradition.

The bar only offered one free cocktail (which made sense since we would soon be starting the official tasting), but had a few different options – neat, on the rocks, or with ginger ale.

After a short time, all of the guests were invited to proceed to the tasting room which was located on other side of space and was filled with tables set for 8.  We all took our seats and waited for the presentation to start.  At each table was an ipad where guests could check in and answer trivia questions about scotch and Macallan – fun and interactive!  The brand ambassador for The Macallan, gave a history of Macallan and led us through the tasting.  He was entertaining and charming and actually informative.  We learned that what makes Macallan special is that it is made in exceptional oak casks and curiously small stills.  Since its humble beginnings in 1824 in Scotland it has grown to a world renowned single malt whisky.

And now to the whisky!!  We tried 4 different versions:

1. Macallan 10 – blonde color, strong legs, floral and light.
2. Macallan 12 – darker amber, cinnamon, spices.
3. Macallan 15 – a bit lighter, more versatile for mixing (served with soda for mixing)
4. Macallan 18 – strong but smooth, oaky with hints of caramel

The speaker mentioned, and we agree, that many people who are not familiar with whisky are a bit intimidated because they don’t know where to start, what to try, or how to properly drink it.  Well don’t be discouraged. The fact is that while it is an acquired taste and there are many brands and varieties, you can try several and settle on one that you like.  Ours happens to be The Macallan 10, great neat or on the rocks.

~I’ll drink to that