The Colossus of Nose – A Tribute to an Iconic Creative Campaign to Unveil The Macallan's Folio 8

The Macallan has announced the release of Folio 8, the latest edition in The Archival Series. It celebrates the brand's legendary creative advertising campaigns from the 1980s and 1990s, bringing together their stories, anecdotes, drawings and photographs. The release is accompanied by a special booklet commemorating the brand’s vintage advertising – plus digital content – all presented in a beautiful book-shaped box. It celebrates the rich heritage of The Macallan – and one of its most unforgettable ad campaigns from decades past.

Folio 8 highlights the iconic 1980s billboard campaign, "The Colossus of Nose," a clever play on words inspired by the classical reference, The Colossus of Rhodes. The great creatives - David Holmes, Art Director, and Nick Salaman, Copy Writer were tasked to bring the brand’s essence to life in the 1980's. Folio 8 captures the essence of The Macallan's exceptional whisky and its towering aroma.

This new edition is a vintage, entirely natural terracotta color and offers a nose of golden sultanas, ripe dates, sweet berry compote, toffee brittle, lemon peel, cinnamon, and hints of anise. The palate reveals sweet raisins, sultanas, ginger, lemon and orange zest, toffee, and sweet oak, culminating in a long, rich finish with sweet oak spices. The color has been carefully crafted and is reminiscent of the roof tiles in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain – where The Macallan’s cask journey begins - and a subtle reference to the sculpture of the Nose in the billboard campaign.

Steven Bremner, Whisky Maker at The Macallan, said: “The inspiration for this eighth edition of The Macallan Folio Archival Series is the eminent billboard advert from the 1980s; ‘The colossus of nose’ which playfully alludes to the magnificent aroma emitted by our single malt. Drawing from The Macallan’s inventory of exceptional European sherry seasoned oak casks to deliver a whisky celebrating outstanding flavors and aromas, reflective of the stature and prominence of the artwork it reflects.” 

The Macallan Archival Series, first launched in 2015, commemorates the brand's journey from a remote farmstead on the River Spey to a world-renowned single malt recognized for its craftsmanship and creativity. Folio 8 continues this tradition, breathing new life into one of The Macallan's most unforgettable ad campaigns.

Folio 8 will be available at The Macallan Estate Boutique and selected The Macallan Airport Boutiques, with registration for the exclusive ballot opening in February 2025.

More information available at themacallan.com