The Harmony Collection derives from the fusion of our inherent curiosity with our principles of innovation and creativity.
Smooth Arabica was created by The Macallan Whisky Maker Steven Bremner, who immersed himself in the art of coffee. He hosted a masterclass with world-renowned coffee masters at The Macallan Estate, exploring the process from field to cup and uncovering the unique process and distinct flavour profiles at each stage.
This exceptional single malt exudes notes of americano, hazelnut and vanilla flavours. Immerse yourself in a sensory experience and discover the 'Its Coffee Time at The Macallan' tasting ritual and enjoy whisky and coffee in perfect harmony.
YIRGACHEFFE AND LIMU COFFEE BEANS
Steven Bremner has paired Smooth Arabica with two different variations of Ethiopian coffee – Yirgacheffe and Limu coffee beans – due to their delicate flavour notes, which accentuate the unique tasting notes within the whisky when enjoyed side by side.
The presence of Yirgacheffe shows the variation of flavour profiles available within Ethiopian coffee, imparting a strong strawberry note and smooth texture.
"For the Smooth Arabica expression, on the nose there is ground coffee, hazelnuts, sweet raisins, dark cherries, a lovely toffee note with vanilla and sweet oak. The palate leads with an americano, followed by raisins, cherries, soft spices, walnuts, vanilla and oak. And the finish leaves a lingering coffee bean profile, which turns sweet and creamy."
Steven Bremner
The Macallan Whisky Maker
Smooth Arabica Pairing Ritual
Step 1
THE PAIRING RITUAL AT HOME
There are five steps to creating the perfect multi-sensory Smooth Arabica tasting experience at home.
1. Where possible, source Yirgacheffe and Limu coffee beans, any two varieties of ground coffee and plain or coffee will work. Source plain or salted popcorn to accompany.
2. Prepare the cupping apparatus.
3. Brew the two varieties of coffee separately. Pour in individual cups.
4. Enjoy a serving of The Macallan Harmony Collection Smooth Arabica with each coffee variety.
5. If plain popcorn is sourced, season with salt. Eat popcorn alongside The Macallan serve and coffee types.
Step 2
POPCORN PAIRING
In an Ethiopian coffee ceremony, popcorn accompanies coffee as part of a ritual that is an integral part of social and cultural life.
The pairing is enjoyed communally to heighten the magic of the drinking experience. The chosen two varieties of coffee are paired with either plain or salted popcorn.
Start
RITUAL HUSK COASTER
The Harmony Collection aims to give new life to materials otherwise wasted or discarded. We encourage you to repurpose the already recycled packaging into a coaster made from the box.
Pour yourself a serving of whisky to accompany your crafting.
Mix all dry ingredients with brewed coffee in large shallow tub.
Sieve through paper-making screen.
Leave to cure and enjoy the rich smell of coffee.
Remove paper from the screen, and hang outside to dry.
Cut out a 10cm diameter circle from your crafted paper. Draw a 10cm diameter circle on The Macallan packaging box and cut it out. Place the latter on top of the crafted paper coaster.
Use your husk coaster in your ritual to sit your serve upon.
Much like whisky, coffee is a beverage that has been enjoyed for hundreds of years. It’s a universal language and an integral part of many different cultures worldwide. The second edition of The Harmony Collection is inspired by the essence of this special drink to create two unique single malts with exceptional flavour and character.