The Macallan, in partnership with Sotheby’s, unveiled Distil Your World Mexico Single Cask Limited Edition for auction, a whisky that captures a sensorial journey through one of the country’s most vibrant celebrations, the Day of the Dead festival. 

Highlighting its extreme rarity, this auction offers collectors the singular opportunity to own one of just two bottles created – Bottle #2 of 2. Bottle #1 will be permanently preserved in the brand’s archive on The Macallan Estate in Speyside, Scotland. 

Bidding for the Distil Your World Mexico Single Cask Limited Edition (54.9% ABV) begins on March 5 and runs through March 21, with the lot estimated between $30,000 and $80,000. This whisky is showcased in a vibrant orange presentation box with a marigold-themed interior design inspired by the Day of the Dead. The multi-component lot will also include an exclusive, bespoke artwork created by illustrator Alfredo Rios, who specializes in depicting nature and Mexican folklore. 

The Distil Your World series first launched with London, followed by New York City, and now continues with Mexico City—each edition capturing the essence of these cultural capitals. In line with its commitment to celebrating global culture through whisky craftsmanship, The Macallan previously hosted an exclusive auction for Distil Your World New York, with proceeds benefiting a local charitable organization. Building on this tradition, all proceeds from the Distil Your World Mexico auction will directly benefit Esperanza International, an organization dedicated to supporting home building and community development in Mexico. 

Made in collaboration with the renowned Roca brothers, owners of 3-Michelin Star restaurant El Celler de Can Roca, The Macallan embarked on a journey to uncover the mastery behind Mexico’s vibrant celebration of life to create Distil Your World Mexico. 

Whisky Maker Diane Stuart, alongside Joan Roca, delved deep into Mexican culture, meeting with remarkable people who encapsulate the traditions, craftsmanship and artistic nature of the dynamic Day of the Dead festival, like acclaimed chef Elena Reygadas of Panaderia Rosetta, director of collections and educational services at the Dolores Olmedo Museum Josefina Garcia, and cultivator of Mexican marigold flowers Luis Perez. The result was a unique single malt that reflects the energy, color, and spirit of Mexico’s vibrant holiday. 

Available only at auction, a one of a kind, single bottle edition drawn from a single American oak sherry seasoned butt (Cask No. 1964) filled on February 10th, 2005. The single malt whisky captures the

essence of the spirit while paying homage to the Day of the Dead tradition, showcasing a 100% natural color of Deep Marigold with an ABV of 54.9%. It delivers captivating notes of creamy dulce de leche and cinnamon dusted churros, balanced with rich vanilla pod and charred pineapple. 

Geoff Kirk, Channel Director Secondary Market at The Macallan said in a news release, “This exclusive auction of the Distil Your World Mexico Single Cask Limited Edition marks another milestone in our ongoing partnership with Sotheby’s, blending the artistry of exceptional whisky-making with a deep respect for culture.” 

Jonny Fowle, Sotheby’s Head of Whisky & Spirits, North America and EMEA, added, “The Distil Your World Mexico Single Cask Limited Edition is a rare offering that combines exceptional whisky, stunning artwork, and a powerful philanthropic purpose. Sotheby’s is delighted to partner with The Macallan, once again, to present this unique opportunity to collectors.“ 

Read more: The Macallan Unveils Two New Harmony Collection Expressions

About The Macallan 

The Macallan is renowned worldwide for its single-malt whiskies. 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. For further information visit www.themacallan.com.