How The Macallan distils the spirit of Hong Kong

Whether you’re taking off from or returning to Hong Kong, glimpsing Victoria Harbour from the aircraft is unforgettable. The city’s iconic skyline shimmers and glows, hinting at the exhilarating amalgamation of ancient tradition and high-tech innovation it conceals. 

These beautifully contrasting elements mirror the essence of exceptional whisky-making and pursuit of harmony that have been The Macallan ’s guiding principles since 1824. The Scottish distillery’s storied, 201-year history led up to the creation of a new, Hong Kong-inspired entry to its Distil Your World collection .

To tell its story, we’ll first need to travel to the heart of the Speyside region of the Scottish Highlands. Here, The Macallan Estate embodies a heritage of uncompromising excellence and a thirst for exploration, preserving those notes of wood, spice, dried fruit and vanilla that whisky connoisseurs across the world have come to love. Its distinct character is shaped by the sherry wine seasoned oak casks sourced from Jerez de la Frontera, Spain.

From the rich and fruity notes developed by The Macallan’s unique copper stills to the 100% natural colours ranging from light gold to deep mahogany, the distillery exemplifies the pinnacle of whisky craftsmanship.

Characteristic of The Macallan’s fervent pursuit of innovation, the latest addition to its Distil Your World collection invites you on a sensory journey through Hong Kong, a metropolis rooted in entrepreneurship, resilience and tenacity. The culmination of this perfect synergy is an extraordinary new single malt that reflects the city’s unwavering spirit.

Hong Kong in a bottle

To make this happen, The Macallan Lead Whisky Maker Euan Kennedy collaborated with long-standing partners the Roca brothers – acclaimed owners of El Celler de Can Roca, twice named the World’s Best Restaurant. Together, they immersed themselves in Hong Kong’s dynamic landscape, exploring its rich and varied character to capture its unique essence.

“I wanted to develop the idea of structure in this whisky, reflective of the built environment rising from the sea to the green peaks behind. This is to create contrast within this whisky, in the same way Hong Kong is a city of contrasts,” Kennedy says.

“It’s a whisky with many layers, to be returned to again and again to find more stories to tell.” 

The result is a naturally dark and exceptional single malt that embodies Hong Kong’s nature. On the nose, it’s rich, resinous and sweet, intertwining with decadent ginger and spices, and balanced by pomelo and mango’s vibrant characteristics. There are even subtle hints of Hong Kong’s beloved egg tarts, as well as a fragrant touch of honey. 

On the palate, a mouth-coating viscosity combines with bright, tropical sweetness. Rounded spices provide structure and an umami-like depth, while the finish shines with antique oak. The colour is named Victoria Harbour Sunset, the perfect homage to this urban oasis.

Collaborative creation

The exquisite presentation of Distil Your World Hong Kong features a removable illustrated print by artist Flyingpig. She conveys her city’s innovative spirit through dynamic visual storytelling, complementing the whisky’s intricate flavour profile and creating a complete sensory experience.

Accompanying this highly anticipated release is Distil Your World Hong Kong, the latest film in The Macallan’s Distil Your World series, following Kennedy and the Roca brothers on their quest to discover the soul of Hong Kong through Hongkongers who embody innovation, heritage, artistry and community spirit. For Kennedy, this “big and bold” single malt closely reflects the topography of the city, which rises up from the sea to the green peaks behind. Ultimately, it is “a deeply personal whisky”, he says.

Furthermore, to show off this special-edition whisky to its fullest, the Roca brothers have designed a menu inspired by Hong Kong’s cultural heritage.  

Reflecting on the experience, chef Joan Roca says: “Distil Your World brought us to Hong Kong and we’ve distilled the city with extraordinary results.”

Amber spirit in the sky

To celebrate the launch of Distil Your World Hong Kong, The Macallan is delighted to announce an exclusive partnership with Cathay. Throughout May, customers travelling between London and Hong Kong in our Aria Suite Business cabins will have the opportunity to experience a special one-month tasting of The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 Years Old single malt whisky in flight. There’ll also be a pop-up tasting in The Pier First lounge at Hong Kong International Airport. Until the end of July, the Distil Your World Hong Kong documentary will also be available to watch in flight, offering an exclusive look at the creative process behind this outstanding expression.

There are many ways to experience a city. The Macallan is proud to embark on a remarkable journey that invites you to savour the essence of Hong Kong, one extraordinary sip at a time.