The Macallan has put itself in direct eye-line of Hennessy's and Louis XIII's regular customers with a new boutique in Harrods.
Located on the lower floor next to Louis XIII and within spitting distance of Hennessy, The Macallan’s new boutique takes up the space once held by the Baccarat Bar.
The World of Fine Spirits popped down ahead of its opening to get an early preview. Gone are the chandeliers, the red velvet details, and the Art Deco furnishings. In comes natural wood, Scottish-inspired photography, and rare single malt whiskies.
The Macallan says this is one of its most extensive ranges of bottles outside the distillery store, including the Home Collection, which had previously only been available at The Macallan Estate and in airport boutiques.
That’s perhaps not enough to justify a trip to Knightsbridge on a busy summer’s day, but a special edition of Rare Cask might be. It’s the standard-issue liquid, but presented in a Harrods-themed box designed by Spanish painter Javi Aznárez.
There are just 100 available, a ridiculous level of rarity for a major brand like Macallan. They’ll be available on opening day (June 19th) on a first-come, first-served basis. They won’t last long.
You’ll also find bottles usually reserved for private clients, such as Horizon and The Tree of Life. Don’t expect to see Romantica here anytime soon, though, with those bottles still being prepared for very careful distribution following its unveiling in May.
Anyone who knows the airport boutiques at Heathrow and Hong Kong will recognize the style. The same architects have designed this space, once again trying to bring the magic of The Macallan down from the hills of Speyside. That means lots of wood, plenty of copper detailing, and bespoke artwork from friends of the brand, Sir Peter Blake and Dave Carson.
Jaume Ferras, creative director at The Macallan, said: “Opening our new boutique at Harrods marks a major milestone for The Macallan, expanding our presence in London and building on our ambitions of delivering standout retail experiences for consumers across the globe.”
