Founded in 1824 on the banks of the River Spey, the Macallan distillery has become, over the decades, one of the leading references in Scotch whisky.
The beginnings of the Macallan distillery
In 1824, Alexander Reid, a farmer and master distiller, obtained one of the first official distillation licenses issued after the Excise Act of 1823. He established his Macallan distillery on the Easter Elchies estate, in the heart of Speyside, a region renowned for the quality of its barley.
Reid made use of local resources: barley grown on his own land, water from the Ringorm Burn, and small copper stills that would give the spirit its distinctive aromatic richness.
A family and artisanal tradition
After Alexander Reid’s death in 1847, the Macallan distillery changed hands but retained its independence and craftsmanship. Over the decades, Macallan established itself as a consistent producer of high-quality whiskies, highly sought after by blenders.
By the end of the 19th century, the Macallan distillery was supplying its malt to many prestigious Scottish blends. This reputation for excellence attracted new investors, who modernized the facilities while preserving the original style.
20th century: towards global recognition
Under the leadership of Roderick Kemp, the Macallan distillery introduced a maturation system using sherry casks imported from Spain; a practice that would become its signature.
Throughout the 20th century, the Macallan distillery went through challenging times, marked by wars and the Great Depression, yet it stayed its course and gradually established itself as a name in its own right.
In 1980, the Macallan distillery ended its role as a supplier for blends and devoted itself entirely to single malt production. This decision marked the beginning of its international rise.
The style of the Macallan distillery
The small stills, among the most compact in Speyside, are an integral part of the Macallan distillery’s identity. They produce a rich, dense distillate with a complex aromatic profile.
Long faithful to the Golden Promise barley variety, Macallan remains committed to the quality of its raw materials. The distillate is then traditionally aged in Spanish or American oak casks that previously held Oloroso sherry, giving the whisky its signature aromatic notes.
Towards a new era for The Macallan distillery
Since 1999, the Macallan distillery has been owned by the Edrington Group, which has invested in facilities that are both ultra-modern and harmoniously integrated into the Speyside landscape, combining contemporary architecture with sustainability.
With 36 stills, 24 wash stills and 12 spirit stills, its annual capacity now exceeds fifteen million liters of pure alcohol.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SCOTISH WHISKIES
La Maison du Whisky has three boutiques in Paris:
In each of these boutiques, you'll find a wide selection of whiskies, rums, sakes, and other fine spirits.
Because a whisky can be described in a thousand words, our experts will be delighted to guide you through the must-try whiskies at La Maison du Whisky.
Follow our tasting calendar for upcoming events, or visit the Golden Promise Whisky Bar, which offers an extensive selection of whiskies and other spirits by the glass.
