Compass Box has launched Magic Cask Whisky. The new limited edition blended malt Scotch from the independent bottler goes to show how “one cask in a blend of many can provide the touch of magic that allows the whole arrangement to sing,” explained Compass Box founder and whiskymaker John Glaser.
Back in 2016, Compass Box re-racked its one-year-old malt spirit into first-fill oloroso Sherry-seasoned casks. In 2019, the London-based company noted a single cask “proved so compelling” that they wanted to experiment with it further. That experimentation has led to the the second Compass Box Magic Cask Whisky.
“We first took advantage of this phenomenon in 2006 when an experimental whisky, finished in an ex-Madeira barrique, led to the limited edition bottling we called Magic Cask,” explained Glaser. “We’re delighted to be able to share with you again the magical influence one exceptional cask – a Sherry-seasoned cask in this case – can have on a recipe.”
Bottled at 46% ABV, the new Whisky offers aromas of marmalade and chai tea spices, with hints of plum. Ripegolden dessert apples dominate the luscious palate, supported by an oaky richness, while flavors of toffee and cocoa powder are also conjured up.
“We have had samples of whisky from the lost Imperial Distillery in our blending room for some time,” noted Whiskymaker James Saxon. “Aged in first-fill Bourbon barrels, the spirit is brimming with fruit and vanilla notes and exhibits a lovely tongue-clinging texture.
“However, finding the right project and accompaniments to this parcel of single malt proved a challenge. Then, last year, we discovered cask #2 amongst samples drawn from our 2016 Sherry cask maturation experiment. Full to the brim with cherry fruit and cedar spice character, it was a remarkably precocious whisky. When combined with the parcel from the lost distillery, it created an exceptionally rich and layered blended malt Scotch whisky.”
Compass Box Magic Cask Whisky is currently available in the United Kingdom and will be launched globally in January 2021. Just 5,538 bottles are set to be made made available and will cost £145 per 700ml bottle or $175 per 750ml.
Earlier this month, Compass Box unveiled Peat Monster Arcana Whisky. The new offering takes the brand’s core peated Whisky and turns it into a French oak influenced expression. Last month, Compass Box celebrated its 20th anniversary with the release of Hedonism Felicitas Whisky. The limited edition Scotch blends together three grain whiskies, each distilled in a different decade.