Compass Box Crimson Casks is a blended malt Scotch whisky from Compass Box, the acclaimed London-based whiskymaker known for its inventive approach to blending single malts. As the name hints, this is a richly sherried release that emphasises power, depth and warming spice.
The whisky is built around a sherry-forward cask recipe, with malts matured in American oak butts seasoned with Oloroso sherry, alongside components aged in red wine casks and custom French oak. It is presented at natural colour and without chill filtration. The result is generous and full, leading with chocolate fudge cake, clove and cardamom, followed by plum jam, redcurrant and rich cherry, toffee and oak. The finish brings raisin, honey and brown sugar with a warm, nutty richness.
A bold and indulgent dram, Crimson Casks is well suited to relaxed sipping after dinner. It rewards a little time in the glass and is a treat for anyone who enjoys a deeply sherried, dessert-like style of whisky.