For anyone who fears the harshness of whisky but is looking to savour the golden liquid, cocktails are an inviting gateway into this universe. A neat pour is bold, intimidating to say the least and here is where cocktails excel by softening a whisky’s blow without sacrificing its complexity. From complementary to contrasting flavours, bartenders craft serves that range from classics to experimental, highlighting a whisky’s character in both familiar and unexpected ways. For newcomers to the whisky world, cocktails are approachable and fun, while seasoned drinkers are offered fresh perspectives on familiar favourites.
This fall, The Macallan takes you to the mountainous tea-growing regions as the whisky maker partners with JING, curators of some of the world’s most distinctive and fine single-garden teas, on The Macallan Harmony Collection (read about last year’s edition here). This unique collaboration highlights The Macallan’s creative nuances as it looks beyond its lush estate for inspiration in its annual experimental release. As with previous editions, two expressions are released, namely The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired By Phoenix Honey Orchid Tea (Domestic) and The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired By Organic Cherrywood Lapsang Tea (Global Travel Retail).
While most would immediately assume that tea leaves are introduced to the whiskies in one form or another, that is not the case. Instead, the collaboration highlights the shared values of the love and artistry of nature. From a sensory perspective, the two distinctive teas serve as points of reference for the whisky’s flavour and aromatic profiles.
The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired By Phoenix Honey Orchid Tea pays tribute to the rare and elegant Phoenix Honey Orchid oolong tea that is rooted in the Phoenix Mountain range of Guangdong, China. Given the tea’s dessert winey and exotic fruit notes, The Macallan sought to replicate it with a predominantly sherry seasoned American oak casks expression. From there, the nuances of sherry seasoned European oak and a slight hint of bourbon seasoned American Oak whiskies round out the final expression. The result is a bouquet of warm honey hue with layers of summery peach, apricot, floral honey, tropical fruits, toffee, and sweet oak.
While experiencing the whisky neat is the purest approach to dissecting their flavours and aromas, The Macallan has partnered with four bars across Singapore for creative takes on The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired By Phoenix Honey Orchid Tea. Fret not, as neat drams are available as well.
Chandu
At Chandu, bartender Karlo brings his Filipino roots and culinary background to the fore as he weaves flavours from food and travels into every pour. His two cocktails, based on The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired By Phoenix Honey Orchid Tea — Unity and Ritual — celebrate the partnership between The Macallan and JING, which mirrors the storytelling synergy of The Robertson’s House and Chandu itself. Unity layers Phoenix Honey Orchid Tea with chai, Amontillado sherry and citrus, while Ritual brightens the whisky’s depth with tropical tea and lemon.
Florette
At Pan Pacific Orchard’s Florette, creativity flourishes under the guidance of Bar Manager Leslie Kuzmenko. Known for her bold, story-driven approach, Harmoning-ly takes inspiration from Phoenix Honey Orchid Tea — unfolding like petals in bloom with floral Pink Gingerlily, tart ume, zesty yuzu and spiced bitterness, echoing the whisky’s sherried warmth in a symphony of fleeting, delicate layers. Autumn Fall, concocted by head bartender Mika, channels the simplicity of a highball, which mirrors his introverted nature. A smooth, malty and slightly smoky first sip is followed by a creamy butterscotch finish that lingers.
Leila
At Leila, Moses curates good times and warm hospitality, and his cocktails are a reflection of that sense of joy and ease. Leila’s Desire captures the romance of a Mediterranean sunset, combining floral notes, citrus brightness and soft sweetness to conjure the wonder of summer by the sea. Imagine Old Jasmine as a refined ode to tradition, as the Old Fashioned is elevated with the fragrant elegance of jasmine. Each sip balances depth and botanical nuance, evoking twilight gardens where serenity and sophistication meet.
Cygnet Bar
Cygnet Bar thrives on curiosity and local flavour, thanks to Singaporean bartender Timothy Aw’s programming. Golden Bloom dresses The Macallan Harmony Collection with elderflower, citrus and gentle smoke, lifted by a sparkling effervescence — a refined balance of blossom and fire. Scarlet Ember strikes a deeper tone, where smoky lapsang and dark cherry give way to oolong, lemongrass and spice, before bright lime and bubbles lift the finish.
Each of the cocktails featured reflects a knack for turning curiosity into flavourful encounters with The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired By Phoenix Honey Orchid Tea at the pulse of it all. Step out and embrace the creativity on offer with The Macallan.
Once you are done with this story, click here to catch up with our September 2025 issue.