By Gary Symons
TLL Editor in Chief
The famed Macallan Distillery has released a new single malt Scotch whisky honoring the 55th anniversary of “Diamonds Are Forever,” proving that some things — like 007’s taste for fine spirits — are indeed forever.
The Macallan Diamonds Are Forever 55th Anniversary Release, available starting Thursday at $750, continues the distillery’s collaboration with the James Bond franchise following their 60th anniversary expression in 2022.
The Macallan’s Whisky Maker Russell Greig crafted the expression with a touch of espionage-worthy intrigue. The Diamonds release was distilled in 2-007 (naturally) and matured for 18 years in bespoke hybrid casks. The selection includes sherry-seasoned European and American oak, along with American oak casks that previously held red wine, a nod to Bond’s wine expertise, which helps him crack the case in the 1971 film.
“Like Bond himself, this whisky holds its secrets,” Greig said. “It may appear dark and mysterious, yet on the palate it surprises with elegance and lightness. Each cask adds a layer to the story; a reflection of the film’s twists and turns, and a testament to the shared spirit of innovation that connects The Macallan and James Bond.”
The 45.5% ABV whisky presents notes of polished oak, vanilla bean and dried fruits on the nose, followed by smooth caramel, cocoa-dusted truffles and a hint of nutmeg on the palate. Its natural color evokes the red and orange sandstone of Nevada’s desert, referencing the film’s Las Vegas setting.
Creative Director Jaume Ferras noted The Macallan’s cinematic pedigree, appearing in more than 290 film and television productions.
“With this release, we honor that legacy, capturing the intrigue, elegance and innovative spirit that define Diamonds Are Forever,” Ferras said. “It is a celebration of timeless storytelling, brought to life through the craft and character that connect The Macallan and James Bond.”
The bottle and presentation box feature design elements from the film’s production art, including imagery from the laser-beam satellite and opening title sequence.
The Macallan is renowned worldwide for its extraordinary single-malt whiskies, and is considered by connoisseurs to be one of the world’s top Scotch producers.
Two centuries have passed since Alexander Reid, founder of The Macallan, distilled the first batch of whisky in his curiously small stills in Speyside, Scotland, in 1824, beginning the extraordinary legacy of the single malt Scotch whisky.
Designed by internationally acclaimed architects, The Macallan Distillery is located on a beautiful 485-acre Estate and takes inspiration from the surrounding ancient Scottish hills.
My own extended family founded the equally famous Glenfiddich Distillery in Speyside, but even my fiercely partisan grandfather would admit The Macallan is a mighty fine Scotch.
The Macallan Diamonds Are Forever whisky is available exclusively at www.themacallan.com and The Macallan Estate Boutique. It will reach select U.S. retailers in March 2026.