The Macallan TIME:SPACE Mastery was released to a fanfare in 2024, commissioned especially for the distillery's 200th anniversary. Alongside a 1940 vintage release, of just 200 bottles, sat a limited edition no-age-statement that was only available either via ballot or through a small number of select retailers. Priced at £1100, it was touted as the hottest ticket in town and fans quickly began to snap them up. But what were the all important numbers? What age was the whisky? how many bottles were filled? And the big question for many, would it have resale value? None of this information has become public knowledge. We know it has to be at least 3 years old, but does north of £1000 suggest value for such a young whisky - notwithstanding the stunning packaging and gargantuan brand name? It is also believed that the number of bottlings could be anywhere from 5000-20000 units!
Fast forward a few months, the dedicated whisky auctions are littered every month with this ‘limited edition’ and realised prices have now fallen as low £800, which when taking into account seller fees means a loss of circa £350 (30%+) from the retail price. This is not helped by the fact that, at time of writing, the bottle is still readily available from retailers at the original price, despite the introduction of a ballot suggesting that wouldn't be the case.
Is this lack of transparency detrimental to future releases from distilleries? You would have to suggest it could well be.
When there are rare vintages, such as the ilk of Macallan Anniversary Malt and the Vintage 18yo series available at some of their lowest prices in years, it makes you wonder why buyers are not putting their faith in them. These are bona-fide legendary bottlings, many from rare vintages and that have been independently reviewed, and revered, by respected critics and connoisseurs. The same can be said for many indie bottlers, such as Signatory Vintage, Cadenhead, G&M and the SMWS, who have an archive of exceptional expressions. In comparison, you would be hard pushed to find any reviews on the actual taste of these new limited releases, other than the official distillers' tasting notes.
We have highlighted The Macallan here, as they are the most high profile example in this case, but it is the same predicament with many distilleries; including Bowmore, Highland Park, Laphroaig, Ardbeg et al. and their new releases. They all have a duty to protect their brand, but in light of recent events, could this be the final straw for many buyers and is their trust/patience in the new limited release market now running on empty?