The Macallan Carta Nautica Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky
The Macallan Carta Nautica is a Highland single malt Scotch whisky bottled at 105 proof (52.5% ABV), built on a three-way cask marriage: sherry-seasoned American oak casks, casks that previously held bourbon, and whisky that completed its maturation in sherry-seasoned American oak. The sherry-seasoned oak takes the lead with nutty depth and sweetness, while the ex-bourbon casks brighten the profile with vanilla and lemon.
- ABV: 52.5% (105 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Casks: Sherry-seasoned American oak and ex-bourbon casks, including a sherry-seasoned American oak finish
- Colour: Natural colour
- Distillery: The Macallan, Easter Elchies, Scotland
The Cask Story
Carta Nautica, The Macallan's nautical-chart expression, is a well-travelled whisky by design. Its backbone is sherry-seasoned American oak, the cask style behind the house's nutty, honeyed depth. Against that sit casks that once held bourbon, bringing vanilla and citrus lift, and a parcel of whisky that finished its journey back in sherry-seasoned American oak — a triumvirate that lands rich and sweet without losing its brightness.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Sweet from the first pour — nougat, vanilla and honeycomb, with an almond-brittle nuttiness and a lift of lemon drizzle cake.
Palate: Toffee and golden syrup up front, balanced by poached pear, green apple and candied orange.
Finish: Malt biscuit, citrus peel and a gentle thread of oak spice.
How to Enjoy
Start with a neat pour to take the full measure of the 105 proof, then add a few drops of water to open up the sherry-cask sweetness. It also holds its own poured alongside other single malts in a comparative tasting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 105 proof mean?
Proof is a traditional measure of alcohol strength: 105 proof is 52.5% ABV, bottled well above the standard 80-86 proof of most Macallan releases, which gives Carta Nautica a richer, fuller mouthfeel.
What casks matured Carta Nautica?
A combination of sherry-seasoned American oak casks and casks that previously held bourbon, with part of the whisky finishing in sherry-seasoned American oak.
Is the colour natural?
Yes. Carta Nautica is bottled at natural colour, with nothing added.
Order The Macallan Carta Nautica Scotch Whisky today, and explore more of The Macallan and the wider whisky collection — available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, with shipping available nationwide.