The Macallan Celebrates Its 200th Anniversary with A Larger-Than-Life Art Installation

Created by sand muralist and Guinness World Record holder Nathaniel Alapide, the artist pays tribute to the storied single malt Scotch whisky brand’s 200 Years Young logo by creating a unique homage in the Dubai desert

What would Nettie have thought? It’s a question we can’t help but wonder when gazing at The Macallan’s 200 Years Young logo, sculpted from sand and standing out proudly against the surrounding dunes. Surely the distillery’s memorable custodian, first female Managing Director and the creator of The Macallan Fine & Rare 1926 – the most valuable bottle of wine or spirit ever sold at auction – would have been tickled at the idea of her legacy making it all the way from Speyside, Scotland to Dubai.

Janet “Nettie” Harbinson was an innovator, always thinking ahead of her time. A larger-than-life artwork, created in the middle of the UAE desert to commemorate a milestone anniversary, would have certainly impressed her.

The storied single malt Scotch whisky brand tapped sand muralist and Guinness World Record holder Nathaniel Alapide to re-imagine its anniversary logo, created by Spanish graphic designer and artist Alex Trochut. Taking inspiration from the River Spey and the rolling hills on The Macallan Estate, Alex’s artistic eye blends together the spirit of tradition with present and future.

From the curve of the distillery’s unique stills – referred to as “Curiously Small” due to their petite size – to the sherry seasoned oak casks, the Spanish artist has allowed for The Macallan’s Six Pillars to play muse to his vision. It’s unsurprising the anniversary logo looks so impressive, be it close up on paper or high above the ground. Nathaniel was then responsible for bringing the motif here to the UAE, carving it out in one of Mother Nature’s most abundant materials, truly paying homage of The Macallan’s legacy on a grand scale.

In celebration of the 200 Years Young sand art installation, located in Al Qudra, Dubai, The Macallan invited friends of the brand to a private viewing by helicopter so they could witness this historical unveiling from a bird’s eye perspective, before tucking into an intimate dinner at Bab al Shams resort. And, of course, they all toasted to the occasion with a wee dram, commemorating this milestone moment within its history.

Combining craftsmanship with creativity, the interpretation of the ‘200 Years Young’ logo in the UAE desert is an extraordinary fusion of art and heritage; truly embodying The Macallan’s legacy whilst looking towards the future. We’re sure if Nettie could have been there she would have been absolutely delighted.

Here’s to 200 years, and 200 many more.

For more information visit themacallan.com