Compass Box The Peat Monster Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Compass Box is a specialist company started in 2000 devoted to making some of Scotland's most unique whiskies through the art of blending. Similar to fine wine negociants, they choose individual casks from different distilleries that offer complementary sets of flavours. They then carefully blend these casks in small batches to make proprietary malt whiskies, grain whiskies, and malt & grain blends from distilleries across Scotland. Compass Box is also renowned for having (arguably) the industry’s highest quality standards for oak cask selection. When one considers that oak is responsible for up to 70% of the flavour of a mature whisky, one understands their mania. Only 100% American oak is used (predominantly first-fill casks). The colour of all the Compass Box whiskies is the natural colour of the whiskies from the casks. No caramel is added. The whiskies are also not chill filtered (a cosmetic process which strips flavour and texture from the whisky). As founder, John Glaser says, “Hazy whisky is a good sign that the whisky maker wants you to taste everything the whisky has to offer.” These are indeed alluring whiskies for the free-thinking enthusiast.

Peat Monster, like all vatted malts, is made by marrying 100% single malt whiskies from different distilleries, including lead distilleries like Ardmore, Caol ila and Laphroaig (they might change over time). Components are aged between 10-15 years, however. we're informed that the recipe has evolved to include older and more elegant Islay malts since 2019. This is a fantastic late-night whisky that also works beautifully in a classic Scotch whisky Highball.

Other reviews... The formula for this whisky has changed slightly since its inception -- and I think for the better. They've added some Laphroaig into the mix of Caol Ila and Ardmore. This whisky demonstrates the layered complexity that can be achieved by marrying whisky from different distilleries and different regions. I particularly enjoy the rich maltiness and oily texture that provide firm bedding and flavor contrast to the classic Islay notes: tar, boat docks, brine, smoked olive, seaweed, and kiln ash. More subtle cracked peppercorn, mustard seed, and citrus fruit add complexity. Long, warming finish. Amazing how a small change in composition can significantly benefit the overall flavor profile of a whisky. 94 points - whiskyadvocate.com

Pale golden color. Sweet clover honey, heather, and peat aromas. A soft, yet rich, entry leads to a sweetish medium-full body with caramel, orange peel, raw honey, toast, vibrant peat and pepper flavors. Finishes with a honeycomb, iodine, and toasty grain fade. Very drinkable, exquisitely balanced, and approachable with vibrant, but (despite the name) not dominant peatiness. 46% Alc./Vol.
International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal - 93 points (Exceptional) - tastings.com