The Macallan Releases a 1987 Whisky-with a Twist in Its Maturation

Monday, 26 October 2026 at 12:04

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You don’t come across a whisky that has been maturing since 1987 every day. The Macallan has now released a remarkable single malt of just this kind. The Scottish distillery is unveiling a new collection featuring, among other expressions, a 38-year-old whisky and a younger 20-year-old release. But age isn’t the only thing that sets them apart. The Macallan has taken an unusual approach to maturing both whiskies. Meet the Carta Nautica Collection.

At the heart of the new whiskies in The Macallan Carta Nautica Collection is the journey of the oak, from North America to Spain and, ultimately, Scotland. For the collection, The Macallan has opted for an unusual combination of cask maturations. But what makes these whiskies so different, and how much do the new bottles cost?

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The Macallan Carta Nautica turns the maturation process on its head

Sherry casks have played an important role at The Macallan for many years. The Speyside distillery is known for its single malts, in which the influence of sherry-seasoned oak is unmistakable. For the Carta Nautica Collection, The Macallan’s whisky team decided to take a different approach. The whisky begins its maturation in oak casks seasoned with sherry from Jerez de la Frontera, Spain.

The whisky is then transferred to former bourbon casks from North America. This is an unusual order, as many whiskies are matured first in bourbon casks and then finished in sherry casks. The difference lies mainly in the influence each type of cask has on the whisky. Sherry casks bring richness and depth, while bourbon casks can add notes of vanilla and fresh fruit. Carta Nautica means “nautical chart” and refers to the journey the oak made before becoming part of this exceptional whisky collection.

A 38-year-old The Macallan distilled in 1987

The oldest whisky The Macallan is releasing as part of the new collection is the Carta Nautica Distilled in 1987. This single malt was distilled in 1987 and then given 38 years to develop.

The whisky is bottled at 45.2% ABV. The Macallan chose this strength because, according to the whisky team, it complements the character of the mature single malt.

It is the combination of extended maturation and different cask types that makes this release especially intriguing. After 38 years, the oak has had a significant influence on the whisky, yet the distillery says fresh, fruity notes are still present.

The bottle also comes in a distinctive presentation. American artist Amy Genser created the design. Inspired by the movement of water, her work reflects the collection’s maritime theme.

What does The Macallan Carta Nautica 1987 taste like?

With a 38-year-old whisky, you might expect oak to take centre stage. Yet the official tasting notes reveal plenty of fruit, too.

According to The Macallan, the whisky has the following characteristics:

Nose: Creamy vanilla, caramelised peach and aged oak
Palate: Nectarine, roasted pineapple and subtle notes of leather
Finish: Lingering notes of oak spice, tropical fruit and sultana

The Macallan Carta Nautica 20 Years Old joins the collection

Alongside the 1987 release, The Macallan has launched a 20-year-old single malt. The Carta Nautica 20 Years Old follows the same distinctive maturation process, but offers a very different flavour profile.

The whisky is bottled at 42% ABV. According to the official tasting notes, fruity and sweet flavours take the lead.

The whisky has the following characteristics:

Nose: Orange zest, creamy vanilla, roasted pineapple and mango
Palate: Peach tea, caramelised figs, chocolate with orange and subtle notes of leather
Finish: Dried tropical fruit, caramel and roasted oak spice

How much do the new The Macallan Carta Nautica whiskies cost?

The Macallan has announced a price of $800 for the Carta Nautica 20 Years Old. The whisky launched at Singapore Changi Airport on 28 September 2026. Since 19 October, the bottle has also been available at selected The Macallan Airport Boutiques worldwide.

The 38-year-old Carta Nautica distilled in 1987 is considerably more exclusive. This whisky is sold through The Macallan Estate Boutique in Scotland and selected brand boutiques.

Want to read more on The Macallan? Do so here.

FAQ

What is The Macallan Carta Nautica Collection?
The Macallan Carta Nautica Collection comprises two exceptional single malt whiskies, aged 20 and 38 years. Both are matured first in sherry casks and then in former bourbon casks.
How much does The Macallan Carta Nautica 20 Years Old cost?
The Macallan Carta Nautica 20 Years Old has a recommended retail price of $800 and is available at selected The Macallan Airport Boutiques worldwide.
What makes The Macallan Carta Nautica whiskies so special?
They follow an unusual maturation process that reverses the traditional order. They mature first in sherry casks from Spain, then in bourbon casks from North America.