A Night on Earth in Jerez

In the south of Spain, there’s a small town called Jerez de la Frontera. If you’ve heard of it, chances are you’re already picturing sherry, flamenco, and a way of life that feels like it’s happily ignored the rush of modernity. If it doesn’t ring a bell, don’t worry—you’ve probably tasted its legacy without realising it. In Jerez, grapes aren’t just fruit. They’re history, tradition, and, sometimes, even a source of luck.

Now, let’s talk about A Night on Earth in Jerez, the latest creation from The Macallan. Yes, it’s a whisky—but it’s not just any whisky. It’s a story in a bottle, full of Spanish traditions, late-night rituals, and some serious craftsmanship. Sure, you might think, “Oh, here comes another clever marketing ploy.” But give it a moment, and you’ll see there’s more to this one than meets the eye.

First, the inspiration: Nochevieja. It’s Spain’s version of New Year’s Eve, but it’s not about fireworks and popping champagne. Instead, it’s a tradition-heavy celebration. Picture this: your family is gathered, the clock strikes midnight, and the chimes begin. For each of the twelve chimes, you eat a grape—one for every month of the year. It’s frantic, fun, and meant to bring you good luck. Miss a grape? Who knows—maybe April will be a mess.

The tradition actually started back in the late 19th century when grape farmers in southeastern Spain had a bumper crop. Rather than let the extra grapes go to waste, they marketed them as symbols of good fortune—a clever mix of business and superstition. Fast forward to today, and it’s a cherished ritual that’s both quirky and heart-warming.

And that’s what inspired A Night on Earth in Jerez. It’s not just a whisky—it’s a nod to the spirit of the town and its traditions. Made with a combination of European and American oak casks seasoned with sherry, this single malt is as rich and layered as the culture it celebrates. Think pastry, grape, and a hint of anise—like dessert in a glass, but far more sophisticated.

But let’s pause for a second. Before you even get to the whisky itself, you’ve got the packaging. And this isn’t just a box. It’s an experience, thanks to Jerez-based artist Maria Melero.

The outside is a work of art: a vineyard under an Andalusian night sky, complete with a crescent moon and a shooting star. It’s romantic and just dramatic enough. At the bottom, there are rose bushes—a poetic nod to the guardians of the grapevines (and maybe a handy deterrent for nosy neighbours). Open it up, and you’ll find azulejos, those classic Jerez tiles with their intricate, homey designs. Finally, inside, golden grapes shimmer in a luminous illustration—a reminder of Jerez’s greatest treasure. It’s almost too pretty to toss. Almost.

Now, let’s talk about what’s inside the bottle. This whisky is made for slowing down and savouring. At 43% ABV, it pours a gorgeous rich amber shade—officially called “Naranja Quemado,” or burnt orange. The aromas are all dried fruits, warm spices, and a touch of nuttiness. Take a sip, and the flavours unfold gently: sweet pastry, juicy grapes, and a soft hint of anise. It’s indulgent without trying too hard, and complex without being pretentious.

But here’s the thing: this isn’t about ticking off tasting notes or trying to impress your friends with your ability to detect a “hint of Andalusian sea breeze.” It’s about the moments—the quiet, meaningful ones when time slows down, and the world feels just a little softer.

Jerez, of course, is no stranger to stories in a glass. It’s the home of some of the finest sherry wines in the world. Here, oak barrels aren’t just tools—they’re storytellers, shaped by the sherry that once rested in them. For The Macallan, Jerez has been a long-time partner in craft, supplying the sherry casks that give their whisky its unique character. As Steven Bremner, The Macallan Whisky Maker, puts it: “Jerez plays a crucial role in The Macallan’s past, present, and future.”

And you can taste that connection in every sip. Whether you’re celebrating the end of a year, marking a milestone, or just enjoying a quiet evening, A Night on Earth in Jerez is more than just a drink. It’s an invitation to embrace tradition, to connect with the past, and to enjoy the little rituals that make life meaningful.

So, how should you enjoy it? However you like. Neat is great if you want to get the full experience. Add a splash of water to open it up a bit more. Share it with friends, or don’t—it’s your bottle, after all. Just make sure you take the time to enjoy it.

Because at its heart, A Night on Earth in Jerez isn’t just about whisky—or even Spanish traditions. It’s about connection. To a place. To the people you love. To those fleeting moments that remind us that life is worth savouring.