Compass Box, renowned for its innovation in blended Scotch whisky, has just expanded its Core Collection with two new releases: Nectarosity and Crimson Casks. These bottlings aim to appeal to both the traditional Scotch enthusiast and single malt purists, showcasing the versatility and complexity that blended whiskies can achieve.
Blended Scotch whisky often faces skepticism among single malt aficionados, despite being the most popular whisky category worldwide. Over 90% of all Scotch whisky sold globally falls under the blended category, thanks to its balanced combination of malt and grain whiskies. However, some connoisseurs mistakenly regard blended Scotch as inferior due to its approachability.
Compass Box, a trailblazer in the industry since 2000, seeks to challenge this mindset by creating blends that rival single malts in complexity and flavor. With a mission to make the world of Scotch whisky more interesting, their latest additions to the Core Collection continue to push boundaries.
Nectarosity: A Sweet Symphony of Flavors
Nectarosity, bottled at 92-proof, is a blended Scotch designed to evoke the aromas and flavors of French pastries. The nose presents a cinnamon-dusted danish scent, while the palate offers rich notes of brioche, fudge, and wildflower honey. The whisky has a syrupy richness, often associated with well-aged single malts. Compass Box achieved this depth by utilizing a combination of virgin charred American oak barrels and palo cortado sherry-seasoned casks.
Transparency is a hallmark of Compass Box, and Nectarosity proudly lists its key components. The main grain whisky comes from Girvan Distillery, while the star malt hails from Clynelish. Priced at $65, Nectarosity hits American shelves this month and is set to become a favorite for those who appreciate a nuanced, dessert-like whisky.
Crimson Casks: A Sherry Lover’s Dream
Joining Nectarosity is Crimson Casks, a 92-proof blended malt priced at $75. This whisky is a sherry bomb, bursting with dark fruit and baking spices. Unlike Nectarosity, Crimson Casks is a blended malt, meaning it contains only malt whiskies from various distilleries, without lighter grain spirits. This distinction will likely appeal to single malt purists, offering a rich, full-bodied alternative within the Core Collection.
With these two new releases, Compass Box continues to challenge the status quo, proving that blended Scotch can be just as complex and rewarding as single malts. Whether you’re a seasoned Scotch enthusiast or a newcomer, Nectarosity and Crimson Casks are worthy additions to any whisky collection.
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