The Macallan Coronation: A Royal Tribute to Her Majesty

In 1953, millions of people around the world gathered in front of their television sets to witness a historic moment: the coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Sixty years later, The Macallan Distillery released a special commemorative bottling to mark the anniversary of this momentous occasion. This limited edition release has become highly sought after by both whisky connoisseurs and Royal family enthusiasts alike.

The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953

Combining the prestige of the Royal family with the pinnacle of luxury Scotch whisky, this release is a true masterpiece. But what makes The Macallan Coronation so special? Here are five things you might not know about this extraordinary bottling.

1. A Delayed Coronation

Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation took place one year and four months after her accession to the throne. This delay was due in part to the unexpected death of her father, George VI, who passed away on February 6, 1952. The coronation eventually took place on June 2, 1953, at an approximate cost of £1.57 million.

The coronation procession on June 2, 1953

2. A Televised Spectacle

The coronation drew a massive television audience of 27 million in the UK alone. This was a remarkable feat, considering that only approximately 350,000 homes had televisions at the time. Neighbors, friends, and family gathered around the nearest TV to watch the procession, often with only one TV per street.

A family gathered around the TV to watch the coronation

3. Two Whiskies, Two Eras

The Macallan Coronation consists of two 35cl bottles of Scotch whisky, representing Her Majesty at two distinct stages in her life. The lighter whisky, matured in American oak sherry casks and bottled at 55.7% ABV, represents Queen Elizabeth II at the beginning of her reign – young and vibrant. The darker, more complex whisky, matured exclusively in Spanish sherry oak casks, represents the Queen decades into her reign – wise and mature.

The two whiskies, representing the Queen at two stages in her life

4. Regal Packaging

The packaging for The Macallan Coronation was designed by Macallan’s acclaimed Art Director, the late David Holmes. The striking red box with royal blue and gold detailing is inspired by the Windsor Coat of Arms. Inside the box is a royal blue booklet explaining the national context surrounding Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953.

The regal packaging of The Macallan Coronation

5. A Limited Edition

Only 1,953 sets of The Macallan Coronation were created, a fitting tribute to the year of Her Majesty’s coronation. Since its release in 2013, it has only appeared at auction 545 times, with a current record hammer price of £6,100.

A rare and coveted bottling

If you’re a Macallan collector or Royal family enthusiast, you can now own The Macallan Coronation for just $4,354. This is a rare opportunity to add a piece of history to your collection.