The Macallan has announced the launch of two releases as part of its new Tree of Life collection, which honours the enduring artistic legacy of visionary Scottish artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Recognising a shared devotion to creativity and craftsmanship, the two expressions — The Tree of Life by The Macallan and Art is the Flower — have been crafted to honour nature’s circularity, drawing inspiration from Mackintosh’s iconic 1902 stained-glass panel, The Spirit of the Rose.

The Tree of Life by The Macallan (46.2% ABV) is a 46 Year Old single malt Scotch whisky, crafted from two Sherry-seasoned European oak casks that were laid down to mature at the Speyside based distillery in 1979.

The whisky which comes housed in a Lalique crystal decanter finished with a crystal rose stopper inspired by The Spirit of the Rose, is said to have a complex profile that reflects not only its maturity but also a pivotal moment in Mackintosh’s life. At the age of 46, he moved to the countryside to take a break from architecture, reconnect with nature, and produced some of his finest artwork.

The Tree of Life by The Macallan, is said to deliver notes of tropical fruits, smouldering peat embers, elegant antique oak, zesty citrus, soft vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg on the nose. Followed by notes of smoky peat, tropical fruit, dark chocolate covered raisins, elegant oak and complex wood spice on the palate.

Commenting on The Tree of Life by The Macallan, Kirsteen Campbell, Master Whisky Maker, said: “This exceptional 46 Years Old single malt, selected to mark the age that Mackintosh reconnected with nature, offers a unique, vibrant and complex expression of The Macallan matured in sherry seasoned oak casks. Tropical fruits charred over smouldering peat embers are balanced with complex wood spice. Notes of antique oak are characteristic of higher aged expressions from The Macallan and evoke Mackintosh’s unique designs crafted from wood, in Scotland, many years ago.”

The Macallan and Art is the Flower (50.4% ABV) is a non-age-stated single malt Scotch whisky matured in Sherry-seasoned European oak casks. It takes its name from a 1902 lecture by Mackintosh, which began with those very words and explored the parallels between art, nature, and the soul.

The whisky is said to evoke Mackintosh’s time in Europe and presents a deep-coloured expression with naturally developed flavours, derived from Sherry seasoned European oak casks. These include notes of raisin, fig, polished oak, cherry and almonds. 

Both expressions build on The Macallan’s rich history of creative collaborations, having previously partnered with leaders in fashion, art and gastronomy. This new launch celebrates the harmonious blend of whisky craftsmanship and artistic expression, showcasing The Macallan’s commitment to honouring cultural heritage whilst pushing the boundaries of creativity. 

Commenting on The Macallan and Art is the Flower, Steven Bremner, Whisky Maker, said: “To truly capture a spirit that depicts Mackintosh’s essence and inspiration, we had to draw upon our own artistry. We had the freedom to tap into our entire inventory, identifying casks that have reached their peak maturation, which added an extra layer of character and complexity. European oak was key as it delivers beautiful oak notes, spices and dried fruit, but crucially also delicate notes of fruits that bear their own blossoms.”

The Tree of Life by The Macallan (limited to 112 decanters) will be available via invitation from The Macallan. The Macallan and Art is the Flower, will be available next month from select specialist retailers. RRP’s (tbc).