Horizon: The Whisky That Tastes Like a Bentley
Introduction:
In a unique collaboration, the Macallan distillery in Scotland partnered with Bentley to create Horizon, a whisky that aims to capture the essence of a Bentley car. The development of this whisky took four years, making it the longest-ever development period for a Macallan whisky. Priced at £40,000, Horizon is positioned as a luxury offering, similar to Bentley’s high-end vehicles. This article explores the journey behind the creation of Horizon and reflects on the impending retirement of Bentley’s iconic W12 engine.
The Legacy of Bentley’s W12 Engine:
Bentley’s W12 engine, which has been the foundation of the brand’s success since its relaunch under Volkswagen Group ownership, is now approaching retirement. Introduced in 2001, the W12 engine has undergone significant improvements over the years. Its power has increased by 34%, torque by 54%, and CO2 emissions have been reduced by 25%. However, due to emissions regulations and the shift towards electrification, the W12 engine will no longer be available in new Bentley models. Despite its impending retirement, the W12 engine remains highly regarded for its performance and refinement.
A Farewell Blast in the Flying Spur Speed Edition 12:
To bid farewell to the W12 engine, a farewell blast was taken in the Flying Spur Speed Edition 12. This special edition model features design elements that celebrate the W12 engine and comes with a scale model of the engine itself. During a 400-mile journey, the author experienced the effortless power and refinement of the W12 engine, which has always excelled at covering long distances with ease. The Flying Spur proved to be a dynamic and comfortable car, defying its size and weight.
The Creation of Horizon Whisky:
The collaboration between Bentley and Macallan resulted in Horizon, a whisky that aims to evoke the essence of a Bentley car. Horizon is the most expensive whisky ever created by Macallan, priced at £40,000 per bottle. Its value lies in its rarity, with only 700 bottles being produced. Each bottle and holder is meticulously crafted by hand using materials reminiscent of Bentley cars. Furthermore, the precious liquid inside is made from the contents of just six sherry-seasoned casks. The exclusivity and craftsmanship of Horizon contribute to its perceived value and appeal to collectors and enthusiasts.
The World of Whisky and Automotive Parallels:
The world of high-end whisky shares many similarities with the automotive industry. Both industries face issues with counterfeiting and have a secondary market driven by collectors and speculators. Macallan is dedicated to ensuring its finest creations are enjoyed as intended, discouraging excessive speculation. As with limited-edition cars, Macallan wants its whiskies to be used for their intended purposes rather than solely becoming investments. The parallels between whisky and luxury cars highlight the craftsmanship, exclusivity, and passion that define these industries.
Conclusion:
The collaboration between Bentley and Macallan resulted in the creation of Horizon, a whisky that embodies the essence of a Bentley car. This partnership reflects the shared values of craftsmanship, exclusivity, and attention to detail that define both the automotive and whisky industries. As Bentley’s iconic W12 engine approaches retirement, enthusiasts can appreciate the legacy it leaves behind. Similarly, aficionados of luxury whisky can savor the rarity and craftsmanship of Horizon. Both the W12 engine and Horizon whisky symbolize the passion and dedication that drive these industries forward.