Macallan Unveils A Night on Earth, The First Light for the Festive Season

Scottish whisky brand The Macallan has released the fourth edition of its annual limited series, A Night on Earth, The First Light. This new single malt whisky draws inspiration from New Zealand's New Year traditions and is now available worldwide.

The expression aims to celebrate the first dawn of the new year in New Zealand, a nation located at the easternmost edge of the world. This whisky is a blend of single malt matured in Sherry seasoned American and European oak casks, along with American oak casks that previously held bourbon. According to the official description, its aroma carries notes of New Zealand Manuka honey, its taste features vibrant berry jam and toasted marshmallow flavors, and the finish offers gentle spice and smooth oak notes.

Russell Greig, The Macallan's Master of Wood, stated, "This year's 'A Night on Earth' collection focuses on 'light' – its cultural symbolism and sensory warmth. This whisky is designed as a gift to be shared and enjoyed with loved ones, inspired by traditions and rituals passed down through generations." He added, "While the heart of this single malt is undeniably Scottish, its southern hemisphere narrative is also expressed through sweet, fruity, soft spice, and toasted oak notes on the finish."

The 'A Night on Earth' series collaborates with a different artist each year to create unique packaging. This edition features artwork by New Zealand artist Bonnie Brown, whose illustrations depict a beach barbecue, a campfire, and Pōhutukawa flowers. Bonnie Brown commented, "As I created this artwork, I thought of my family's New Year's Day tradition of starting the day at the beach and going for a swim. It's a beautiful memory and a key part of our annual traditions that embodies the Kiwi way of life I grew up with, such as exploring New Zealand with my mother and embracing the natural landscapes."

The series' first release was 'A Night on Earth in Scotland', celebrating Scotland's Hogmanay traditions. This was followed by 'A Night on Earth The Journey', honoring the travels undertaken each year to reunite with loved ones. More recently, the series ventured to southern Spain for 'A Night on Earth in Jerez de la Frontera', a region deeply connected to The Macallan's tradition of sherry cask maturation.

2025-11-04

Source: https://thewhiskeywash.com/whiskey-news/macallan-welcomes-holiday-season-with-a-night-on-earth-the-first-light/