‘The Colossus of Nose’ – Edrington expands The Macallan Archival Series with Folio 8 launchs

Folio 8 pays tribute to The Macallan’s advertising campaigns from the 1980s and 1990s, drawing on original stories, illustrations and photography from that era.  

Apr 18, 2025 - 03:49
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‘The Colossus of Nose’ – Edrington expands The Macallan Archival Series with Folio 8 launchs
The expression marks the eighth release in The Macallan Archival Series, which debuted in 2015

The Macallan, part of Edrington Group, has revealed the latest instalment in The Archival Series: Folio 8. The expression is available at select The Macallan airport boutiques and shop-in-shops in travel retail. 

Folio 8 pays tribute to The Macallan’s advertising campaigns from the 1980s and 1990s, drawing on original stories, illustrations and photography from that era.

The expression is presented in a book-shaped box alongside a commemorative booklet, supported by digital content that reflects the brand’s creative history. 

Folio 8 highlights The Macallan’s 1980s billboard campaign ‘The Colossus of Nose’ – a play on the classical reference the Colossus of Rhodes.  

Created by art director David Holmes and copywriter Nick Salaman, the campaign is part of a broader effort to define the brand’s identity.  

Edrington Regional Managing Director – Global Travel Retail Jeremy Speirs commented: “The Archival Series has always resonated with whisky collectors and enthusiasts, and we are thrilled to bring Folio 8 to travel retail.  

“This release not only honours The Macallan’s rich creative legacy but also offers travellers a chance to own a piece of the brand’s storytelling history.  

“With its unique character and distinctive packaging, Folio 8 will be a highly sought-after release in The Macallan’s global travel retail network.” 

The new expression features a terracotta hue, referencing the roof tiles of Jerez de la Frontera in Spain, where The Macallan’s cask journey begins.  

The colour also subtly nods to the sculpture used in ‘The Colossus of Nose’ campaign. On the nose, Folio 8 offers notes of dried fruits, citrus peel, toffee and spice, while the palate brings together raisins, ginger, oak and zest. 

The Macallan Whisky Maker Steven Bremner 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.  

“It draws from The Macallan’s inventory of exceptional European sherry seasoned oak casks to deliver a whisky celebrating outstanding flavours and aromas, reflective of the stature and prominence of the artwork it reflects.” ✈