Compass Box 'Menagerie' Blended Malt Scotch Whisky

Whisky is full of life. Scotland especially is home to many different species of spirit, from heavy to light, fruity to smoky, and pungent to ethereal. Certain whiskies taste that little bit wilder than others, and we have brought together some of these strange and beautiful creatures to create our Menagerie. Malt whisky from the Mortlach Distillery is renowned for its complexity but enthusiasts seek out its meaty side in particular. The parcel we have selected bursts with fruitiness, but underneath we found contrasting scents of worn leather and roast lamb. To this we have added malt whiskies from the Deanston Distillery for their citrusy top notes and animalic, forest floor aromas. Our Highland Malt Blend – aged for a number of years in custom French oak barrels – lends a thrilling and brooding spiciness, while malt whiskies from the Glen Elgin Distillery bring exotic fruitiness and musky leather. Lastly, scents of the primordial tarpit come courtesy of malt whisky from the Laphroaig Distillery. Rather than a raucous zoo, bringing these specimens together has created harmonious flavours and textures. Gentle notes of spiced honey, toffee and roasted peach are the flavours on which Menagerie’s wild creatures leap and soar.

Menagerie is engagingly lush with plenty of tropical and orchard fruits, a tingling spiciness, and thick creaminess. A soft undertow of ashy smoke weaves itself into the palate. There is a touch of the wild about it.