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A Diamond Dram: The cinematic story behind The Macallan’s new Bond tribute
By Tessa Crowley | 10 February 2026 | Food & Drink
Scottish whisky titan, The Macallan, unveils its latest masterpiece: a spy-inspired single malt crafted in homage to a cinematic legend — The Macallan Diamonds Are Forever 55th Anniversary Release.
The Macallan is back with a new cinematically-inspired single malt Scotch whisky: The Macallan Diamonds Are Forever 55th Anniversary Release. Marking 55 years since the film lit up the silver screen, this limited edition release celebrates the shared appreciation for craftsmanship, innovation and storytelling that connects The Macallan and James Bond.
Available exclusively at Heathrow Airport until the 17 February, the expression will be released more widely from 5 March at Harrods and Selfridges, among other select UK retailers. An extension of The Macallan and James Bond’s existing partnership, which saw The Macallan release a special edition James Bond 60th Anniversary expression in 2022, this bottling is the latest in the creative collaboration between the two iconic brands.
Referencing the original Diamonds Are Forever production art in the official Bond archives, the striking bottle and presentation pack design features memorable and iconic details, from the laser-beam satellite to the film’s opening title sequence. Bottled at 45.5% ABV, the Scotch whisky’s natural colour recalls the red and orange Aztec sandstone of the Nevada desert surrounding Las Vegas, a key film location. Each element shaped to evoke the world of James Bond, showcasing The Macallan’s time-honoured tradition of cohesive storytelling through a combination of considered whisky craft and intentional visual design.
Jaume Ferras, Creative Director, The Macallan said: “The Macallan has a long standing connection with film and television, appearing in over 290 productions across the years. It is a privilege to honour the enduring legacy of James Bond on cinema, with stories and characters that continue to inspire audiences around the world.
“With this release, we honour that legacy – capturing the intrigue, elegance and innovative spirit that define Diamonds Are Forever. It is a celebration of timeless storytelling, brought to life through the craft and character that connect The Macallan and James Bond.”
Crafted by Whisky Maker Russell Greig, the expression uses bespoke hybrid casks, crafted from sherry seasoned European and American oak, which are further complemented with the novel inclusion of casks made from American oak which previously held red wine. The release draws from the Diamonds Are Forever plot, with the unusual selection taking inspiration from Bond’s knowledge of sherry and red wine. Distilled in 2007 and matured for 18 years, this unique single malt whisky promises intrigue, bold flavours and duality.
Russell Greig, The Macallan Whisky Maker, commented: “Like Bond himself, this whisky holds its secrets. It may appear dark and mysterious, yet on the palate it surprises with elegance and lightness. Each cask adds a layer to the story – a reflection of the film’s twists and turns, and a testament to the shared spirit of innovation that connects The Macallan and James Bond.”
On the nose, The Macallan Diamonds Are Forever 55th Anniversary Release presents polished oak, vanilla bean, and rich dried fruits. The palate opens with smooth layers of caramel and cocoa-dusted truffles, revealing fruit driven complexity and a hint of nutmeg. The finish promises to be long and refined.