Day 20 today we have a dram from what i would argue is one of the more well known independent bottlers. Or atleast more know in north america. With a willingness to experiment and play with what is classified as whisky its hard to argue with the flavors that they come out with. Today is no exception but at least for now this dram is readily available so if you like it go out and get it now
Profile
Compass Box was launched in 2000 by the American John Glaser, who was previously International Marketing Director at Johnnie Walker. To promote his whisky, John travelled through London visiting pubs and bars with samples and, in idiosyncratic style, handing out business cards billing himself as “John Glaser – Whisky Zealot”.
Compass Box’s modus operandi and strong work ethic is what sets them apart as an independent bottler and blender like no other. Compass Box buy individual casks and focus on creating a craftsman-like boutique product. None of their bottlings are chill-filtered, nor is any colouring added and are all married exclusively in American oak. This brings the characteristic sweetness to the whisky.
One of their unique expressions and a superb example of their methodology is Compass Box Hedonism. This is a marriage of between eight and fifteen different grain whiskies, most of which are over twenty years old and all are aged in first-fill American oak. Hedonism went on to be heralded as the World’s Best Grain Whisky at the 2008 World Whisky Awards. John Glaser was himself featured four times in Whisky Magazine as Innovator of the Year.
Tasting Notes
Nose:melon, peat, fruit cake, spring seaside, flowers, campfire after it rained
Taste: toasted molasses, candied fruit, spicy, fruitcake
Finish: wet burned paper, smoky, beach fire, burnt caramel
Purchase Links
Can be purchased from BC Liquor Stores
Can be purchased from the Strath
Can be purchased from the Tutor house