The Macallan A Night on Earth - The First Light
A limited edition single malt whisky celebrating New Zealand's unique position as one of the first places on Earth to welcome the new year. This radiant expression honours the feeling of joy, renewal and shared beginnings at the very first light of the year.
The Story
The fourth release in The Macallan's A Night on Earth series explores how communities across the globe gather to welcome the new year. This edition journeys to New Zealand, where the first rays of sunlight set the tone for the year ahead – bright, peaceful and full of promise.
New Year in New Zealand is a time for togetherness, celebration and hope, ushered in with fireworks over the sea, bonfires on the beach, and the symbolic warmth of a new dawn. Through the evocative artwork of New Zealand-born illustrator Bonnie Brown, this release captures the essence of a Southern Hemisphere celebration – its vibrant sights, fragrant scents, and cherished traditions of togetherness.
Maturation
Crafted by The Macallan Whisky Mastery Team, this expression is matured in a harmonious combination of sherry seasoned European and American oak casks, with sparing inclusion of casks that previously held Bourbon. This careful selection offers a warm, fruity profile that echoes the joy of festive summer gatherings on the coast.
Tasting Notes
Colour: Deep golden sand
Nose: Warm and inviting with notes of summer fruits, gentle spice and hints of coastal freshness
Palate: A harmonious blend of rich fruit character from the sherry casks, balanced with subtle vanilla and oak notes from the bourbon influence, creating a warm and celebratory taste experience
Finish: Smooth and lingering, reminiscent of golden morning light
Presentation
The beautifully designed gift box takes inspiration from New Year's Eve by the coast. The outer sleeve reflects the warm glow of bonfires on sand, while lifting the lid reveals vibrant blues alive with the energy of fireworks reflected on water. The final reveal shows the golden light of morning – a symbolic new beginning.
Every detail, from the embossed textures to the carefully chosen colours, honours both tradition and innovation. The layers of the gift box design mirror the progression of a New Year's celebration in New Zealand, from dusk to dawn, making this a gift designed to be experienced together.
The Artist
Bonnie Brown's artwork draws on her own memories of celebrating New Year on the coast, rooted in the warmth of long summer days. Her illustrations reflect cherished rituals – welcoming the sunrise with loved ones and moments of quiet reflection by the ocean. As Bonnie says: "When I created this artwork, it reminded me of my family's New Year's Day ritual: starting the day at the beach and taking a swim in the ocean. It's a fond memory and a key part of our annual tradition."
This release embodies The Macallan's commitment to craftsmanship and the joy of meaningful connections, inviting you to unwrap not just a whisky, but a feeling of joy, renewal and shared beginnings at the very first light of the year.
