Macallan is probably best known for its use of Sherry casks to age its Scotch whiskies - elevating it to amongst the most sought after and popular Scotch whisky brands globally.

It should come as no surprise that Macallan has thus decided to take a 50% stake in Grupo Estevez as a joint venture, ensuring an exclusive supply of its Sherry casks.

The Macallan. (Image Source: The Macallan)

Macallan has said that the move will help "ensure a sustainable supply of high quality Sherry production for its Sherry-seasoned casks".

| Read: Neither Shaken Nor Stirred: A Look Into James Bond's Whisky Of Choice - Macallan Distillery

“Our partnership with Grupo Estévez builds on The Macallan’s long-standing, deep relationship with the Jerez community and with our wide range of valued suppliers in the Sherry industry that have always played a critical role in the quality of our exceptional Scotch whisky,

We hand select our Sherry-seasoned oak casks from Jerez for richness and complexity. The partnership with Grupo Estévez demonstrates the creativity and innovation that has driven The Macallan since it was founded almost 200 years ago and continues the brand’s evolution through masters collaborating with masters.”

- Igor Boyadjian, Managing Director of Macallan

“This will be the first time we have used our beautiful Sherry for cask seasoning, and we are so pleased that we will do this exclusively for The Macallan, which is synonymous with the highest quality Scotch whisky.

We look forward to contributing to that quality in the years ahead through the seasoning of The Macallan casks with our Sherry.”

- Jose Ramon Estevez, CEO of Grupo Estevez

Valdespino is one of the most historic brand of premium Sherries. (Image Source: Sherry Notes)

Grupo Estevez operates its vineyards and bodegas within Spain's Jerez Sherry Triangle, producing Sherry under the Valdespino brand.

Valdespino itself remains one of the most historic bodegas in Jerez, originating in 1264, and is considered a "Grand Cru" of Jerez.

As part of the acquisition, Valdespino will become part of the Edrington portfolio which includes Scotch whiskymaker Highland Park, blended whisky The Famous Grouse, and Brugal Rum, alongside Macallan.

Lead image courtesy of Macallan and Grupo Estevez.  

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team