Macallan 81 The Reach

The Macallan The Reach 81 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
700ml | 41.1% ABV | Natural Color | Non-Chill Filtered | 1 of 288 Bottles

A Liquid Relic from 1940

The Macallan The Reach 81 is the oldest whisky ever released by The Macallan—distilled in 1940 during World War II and matured for 81 years in a single sherry-seasoned European oak cask. Consequently, it represents a moment in history when the distillery operated under wartime constraints. Moreover, only 288 bottles exist, making it one of the rarest whiskies on Earth.

Crafted in Wartime, Revealed in Peace

This spirit was laid down in cask #263 in 1940—a time when barley was scarce and distillation was nearly halted. The cask survived decades of change, forgotten until rediscovered in The Macallan’s warehouses. In fact, the Macallan The Reach 81 is a testament to patience, legacy, and the enduring power of time.

Deep, Ethereal, and Profoundly Complex

Bottled at 41.1% ABV, this whisky delivers astonishing depth without heaviness. As a result, it layers antique oak, dried fig, and treacle with subtle notes of clove, tobacco, and dark chocolate. Additionally, the extreme age imparts a waxy, silky texture that lingers for minutes.

Tasting Experience

First, the nose reveals antique wood, dried plum, and leather, followed by ginger, nutmeg, and a whisper of smoke. Then, delicate notes of beeswax and dark honey emerge with air.

On the palate, the texture is velvety and weightless. Flavors of black tea, prune, roasted nuts, and spice unfold with grace. The alcohol feels seamless, adding warmth without heat.

Finally, the finish is eternal—dried herbs, oak spice, and a haunting echo of history. Altogether, it’s a transcendent experience that honors the vision of this Macallan The Reach 81.

A Sculptural Masterpiece

Each bottle is housed in a hand-blown glass decanter cradled by a bronze sculpture of three hands—representing the 1940 distiller, the cask guardian, and the modern whisky maker. Therefore, it’s as much an artwork as a whisky. The Macallan The Reach 81 was sold exclusively through Sotheby’s, with proceeds supporting The Macallan’s sustainability initiatives.

Own a Piece of Whisky History

If you seek the ultimate collector’s item, explore our [Macallan Rare & Old Collection]. You might also enjoy learning about [the story behind The Reach sculpture and its wartime origins].