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November 26, 2016Compass Box Hedonism Blended Grain review
Compass Box Hedonism was first released in the year 2000, and it was the first of its kind – a blended grain whisky. Another innovation by the tireless innovators from Compass Box. This small independent bottler has really been a pioneering facet in whisky industry, they’ve even managed to upset Scotch Whisky Association (SWA). You can read the story from here.
Compass Box was founded in 2000 by American John Glaser, who worked previously as the International Marketing Director at Johnnie Walker. While promoting his whisky through London, visiting pubs and bars with whisky samples, he was handing out business cards billing himself:
“John Glaser – Whisky Zealot”
The batches are all unique and variations will occur, but I’ve read that Compass Box Hedonism has even had some 29 year old Carsebridge grain whisky – giving it depth and complexity. Also some 18 year old Cambus and 14 year old Cameronbridge providing a sweet fruity structure. So there’s been some serious age statements involved in this whisky. Like said, batches will vary according to batch, but typically whiskies from Cameron Bridge, Carsebridge, Cambus, Port Dundas or Dumbarton distilleries are involved.
The blended grain whisky is matured in 100% first-fill American oak barrels or rejuvenated American oak Hogsheads. Hedonism is made only once a year.
Enjoying life like Don Juan DeMarco
Hedonism is really like its name, full of enjoyment. It’s light, yet characteristic. It has nice layers and even complexity, an aperitif whisky. And being a blended grain whisky, it’s rancid – like a hedonist should be. This blended grain whisky brings Don Juan DeMarco into my mind. It is like the character of Johnny Depp, claiming to be Don Juan, enjoying life. The movie also has Marlon Brando, who’s surely had his share of enjoyment in life.
Amazingly, Compass Box Hedonism has “only” gotten 2nd place prize in Best Grain Whiskey category in 2015 International Whisky Competition. I’m not a big fan of grain whiskies so I would’ve guessed this smooth operator as the winner in Best Grain Whisky category.
Compass Box Hedonism Scoring
86Ralfy liked Compass Box Hedonism very much, giving it a score of 89