That first whiff of a newly opened bottle of whisky is arguably one of the most intoxicating scents in the world, next to a plate of freshly served hot and steaming pancakes and the smell of morning dew just before the sun rises. That’s probably why The Macallan decided to team up with master perfumer Roja Dove for the highly anticipated Edition No.3.
The man can identify 800 scents while blindfolded and is the ‘nose’ people and brands look to when they want to create something special. That’s what happened a decade ago, Dove shared with us. The Macallan’s master whisky maker Bob Dalgarno approached him with an idea – uniting the worlds of whisky and aroma to create a single malt that will bowl the world over.
Interestingly, Dove revealed that he hated whisky due to a bad first experience with the liquor when he was 15. Youthful bravado made him down two glasses of an unnamed whisky, one after the other. Consequently, he became horribly drunk. It was only when he was approached by The Macallan for a collaboration many decades later that he decided to give whisky another chance.
Roja Dove
Making the Macallan Edition No.3
Dove used his remarkable nose to describe the aromas in the different casks that was presented in front of him, and articulated how he would like the whisky to smell. Then, Dalgarno used these notes to shape the final character of Edition No.3.
Dove admittedly was surprised at Dalgarno’s accuracy. “We worked together to master the balance of taste and aroma, resulting in an incredibly flavoursome, fresh and citrus whisky with enveloping sweetness. Edition No.3 is an exceptional example of the whisky maker’s art, where Bob has interpreted my thoughts so accurately, when combined with the extraordinary power of scent,” said Dove.
The Macallan Edition No.3
Much like Edition No.1 and No.2, Edition No.3 is also the result of paying incredible attention to the casks used in the whisky-making process. Crafted from a combination of European and American oak casks, Edition No.3 balances a heavier base derived from Tevasa casks and reflective of The Macallan character, with the fresh cut oak and citrus of Hudosa casks, the vanilla ice cream and sweet green apple flavours of bourbon casks, and the dry, floral and vanilla notes from European and American oak refill casks.
It’s the kind of whisky you’ll want to drink after a light meal, with the cigars put away for another evening. It’s refreshingly floral and light, with an aftertaste that lingers on the tongue, seducing you to pour another measure. It’s very reminiscent of Dove’s own perfume creations and is perfect for those who don’t like the smoke and peat that accompanies whiskies from Islay. A perfect addition to your whisky stash, should you require one for the nights when you have a lady over for a nightcap. Stocks are limited, so get your hands on one while you still can.
The Macallan Edition No.3 is priced at S$190 (before GST)