At The Macallan, the outturn from 1971’s spring barley harvest was piped every bit as carefully through to rest in European oak casks following distillation. Positive growth remained the watchword of the day. The company’s fortunes were as prudently managed, and proudly steered, as those of the Commonwealth Games, held in Edinburgh the year before and welcomed for their resounding success.

Amidst the complex, diverse narratives of the time, the 1971 Fine & Rare is an outstanding snapshot of excellence, proof positive that continuity, commitment and confidence can deliver a memorable result, whatever is blowing in the wind.