Benriach 31, Macallan 110 Proof & Glenlivet 56 Unveiled

Three exceptional single malts surface: bold smoke, sherry oak elegance, and record-breaking age

At the start of the week, whisky collectors and enthusiasts are treated to early glimpses of three remarkable Speyside releases. Spotted through the U.S. TTB database and editorial insights from 88 Bamboo, the new expressions include the Benriach Shades of Smoke 31 Year Old, the Macallan 12 Year Old 110 Proof Sherry Oaky, and the Glenlivet 56 Years of Age. These limited editions each bring a distinctive character—smoky innovation, sherried power, and refined maturity.

Bold designs and artistic storytelling

Benriach’s new “Shades of Smoke” series debuts with a visually arresting label for the 31 Year Old Edition No. 1, created by digital artist Stefano Contiero, whose artwork interprets the whisky’s sensory depth. While details for Glenlivet remain minimal, the understated label of the 56-year-old expression hints at a luxurious bottle and bespoke presentation, likely tailored for collectors. Meanwhile, Macallan maintains its classic Sherry Oak Collection identity, now intensified with a bold 110 Proof mark—a nod to its U.S. market exclusivity.

From sherry casks to smoky mandarin—maturation and flavor depth

The Benriach 31 YO was distilled in 1994 and bottled at 48.1% ABV, unveiling an avant-garde flavor symphony: yuzu and forest honey, juniper smoke, hibiscus, chocolate, and spiced orange caramel—culminating in notes of charred mandarin, lemon ginger, peach, and wintergreen.

Macallan’s 12 YO 110 Proof is aged in European oak casks seasoned with sherry wine in Jerez de la Frontera, and bottled at 55% ABV. It offers a rich and warming profile:

• Sticky dates and cherry compote
• Cinnamon, cacao nibs, and dried orange slices
• Oak, sultanas, stem ginger, star anise, mandarin, and espresso beans
• Finish: Treacle toffee, mocha, and sweet cinnamon

Details on Glenlivet’s 56 Year Old are still under wraps, though its 42.6% ABV and age statement alone place it among the most mature releases in Speyside’s modern history.

Collectors and connoisseurs alike will be watching closely for official releases and availability—these bottlings are poised to be centerpieces of any serious whisky collection.