Macallan 12 Recipe

Chill glass

If desired, place the rocks glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill with ice water while preparing to lightly chill the glass, then discard water and dry.

Add ice

Place one large clear ice cube into the chilled rocks glass. A single large cube melts more slowly and keeps the whisky from diluting quickly.

Measure and pour

Measure 2 oz of Macallan 12 and pour it gently over the ice cube into the glass.

Optional: Add water

If you prefer the whisky to open up, add up to 1/2 teaspoon of still water. Add in small increments and taste as you go — even a few drops can change the aroma and palate.

Express orange oil

Hold an orange twist over the glass with the outer (zesty) side facing down about 3–4 inches above the whisky. Pinch the twist quickly to express the citrus oils across the whisky surface, then rub the peel lightly around the glass rim and drop the twist into the drink (or discard if preferred).

Serve immediately and sip slowly, enjoying the aroma and the balance of flavors. No stirring is required; let the whisky rest a moment after adding water so aromas develop.

If you chilled the glass with ice water, rinse and dry the glass thoroughly before pouring to avoid any residual dilution or water spots on the glass exterior.