woody malty
3.8
(17)
€85Scotland, Grain

Flavours

Whisky character

Fresh
Warm
Mild
Full
Smooth
Spicy

Taste mentions

Facts

John Glaser launched Compass Box in 2000 with a bold vision. He believed grain whisky deserved recognition beyond its role as blend filler. This was the first release, crafted from rare old stocks including closed distilleries like Cambus. Vanilla cream flows across the palate with butterscotch and coconut notes. The grain delivers surprising complexity through careful American oak maturation. Each sip reveals layers of caramel and citrus that dance with black pepper warmth. This supple frame carries floral touches and fresh fruit sweetness. Pour it neat to appreciate the full spectrum of flavours that challenged industry conventions.

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3.8 /5

17 reviews

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About the distillery

Distillery

Compass Box

Compass Box is an independent Scotch whisky bottler and blender based in London, founded by John Glaser in 2000. The company sources whisky from a variety of distilleries in Scotland, and then blends them to create unique and high-quality whiskies. Compass Box is known for its innovative approach to blending, using both traditional and modern techniques to create new flavour profiles. Their whiskies often feature a combination of malt and grain whiskies, and may be aged in a variety of casks, including sherry, bourbon, and French oak. In addition to their core range of whiskies, Compass Box also releases limited edition bottlings and collaborates with other companies to create special releases. The company has been at the forefront of the movement to increase transparency in the whisky industry. In 2016, they launched a campaign called "Transparency" that provides detailed information about the whiskies used in their blends, including the distilleries they come from and the ages of the whiskies used.

3.7Average rating

79Whiskies on Distilld

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Most popular whiskies from Compass Box

About the Compass Box Compass Box Hedonism

Compass Box Compass Box Hedonism is a blended grain Scotch whisky from Scotland. Compass Box founder John Glaser created this inaugural release in 2000. He wanted to showcase the untapped potential of mature grain whiskies aged in quality American oak casks. This groundbreaking expression challenged the whisky world's single malt obsession. It proved grain whisky could stand proudly on its own. The distillery sources from multiple Scottish grain producers. Layers of vanilla cream, butterscotch, and coconut flow seamlessly together. Citrus brightness balances rich caramel depth. Black pepper adds gentle warmth to the supple texture. Compass Box Compass Box Hedonism delivers purity and sweetness through careful blending. Floral notes emerge alongside fresh fruit and cream. The entrancing texture appeals to both newcomers and enthusiasts. The alcohol integrates beautifully at 43% ABV. No chill filtration preserves the natural oils and mouthfeel. Apricot and banana fruit notes drift through the nose. Grapefruit zest and ginger spice add lift. Grain and cereal undertones ground the sweetness. Custard and cream flavours linger through a long, mellow finish. Eucalyptus and fennel add a subtle herbal edge to the aromatic profile. Earth and floral notes keep the sweetness from feeling cloying. The 43% strength makes it an easy and rewarding afternoon pour. This whisky drinks beautifully neat in a large wine glass. Grain whisky sceptics often find Hedonism changes their mind after one careful, unhurried pour. The grain's natural mellowness allows the American oak influence to shine. Cereal undertones and gentle warmth never overwhelm the delicate balance.