The Macallan

If only your hobby was as successful as The Macallan. The Scotch distillery started as a small-scale operation next to the real draw—farming. Located along a stretch frequented by cattle traders, it wasn't long before they were stopping to purchase whisky. The Macallan whisky owes its signature deep amber color and full-bodied, fruit-cake character to carefully selected sherry casks from Spain.

Distilled in the unpronounceable village of Craigellachie, The Macallan was one of the world's first licensed distilleries and has produced single malt whiskies since 1824.

Its fame reached new heights in 2001 when British politician Michael Martin named The Macallan the official Scotch of the Speaker of the House of Commons. There's no word on how many glasses the Speaker generally has before addressing parliament — or what it means for a politician to officially endorse a Scotch — but maybe the U.S. Speaker should consider a similar move.

What Are the Types of The Macallan Scotch?

When you're the best in the business, you don't have to offer a huge selection to entice buyers. That's why The Macallan only produces five single malt varieties and a number of limited releases.

• Sherry Oak: Balanced with wood smoke, spice, sherry and dried fruits, this single malt is the most affordable option from The Macallan. As the name implies, it's aged for 12, 18, 25, 30 or 40 years in oak barrels, giving it a smooth flavor that keeps you coming back. Price goes up with age, but like a fine wine, it always gets better.
• Highland Single Malt Edition #2 (Limited Edition Release): The number 2 doesn't imply that this is the second-best Scotch. It's just the second edition of the annual limited release from The Macallan. Produced as a collaboration between The Macallan and the twice-voted best restaurant in the world, El Celler de Can Roca of Girona, Spain, there's nothing quite like the flavors of this Scotch.
• Fine Oak: Soft, yet complex, the Fine Oak series is a refreshing mix of citrus fruits, honey and clover that produces a creamy, oily and yet not-too-heavy flavor. It's the perfect pairing for a college graduation, wedding or when your team wins the Super Bowl. Ages include 10, 15, 17, 21 and 30 years in an oak barrel.
• Double Cask: If you love American-made Scotch, yet want something a bit classier, the Double Cask is the best of both worlds. Using oak shipped from the U.S., the barrels receive sherry seasoning and are filled with Scotch that ages for 12 years.
• Rare Cask: If you just got a promotion or need to seal a business deal, go with the Rare Cask. This Scotch ages in handpicked barrels, resulting in a darker version that throws out flavors of raisin, orange, sultana and ginger. The 1824 Collection: A throwback to the original distillation process from 1824, this O.G. is light and sweet with hints of butterscotch and vanilla.