I recently had the opportunity to try Compass Box’s limited release, “This Is Not a Luxury Whisky,” and was blown away by its complexity and richness. With only 4,992 bottles produced, this blended Scotch whisky is a true rarity that is sure to impress even the most discerning of whisky enthusiasts.
Table of Contents
Compass Box ‘This Is Not a Luxury Whisky’ Overview
Product History
Compass Box ‘This Is Not a Luxury Whisky’ is a blended Scotch whiskey that was first released in 2015. The name of the whiskey is inspired by a 1929 surrealist artwork. The limited edition whiskey is a blend of old and rare grain whiskeys that complement the older malt. The company went all-in to create a compelling, lingering, and complex blended Scotch that challenges the notion of what makes a luxury whiskey a ‘luxury.’
Price Range
Compass Box ‘This Is Not a Luxury Whisky’ is priced at around $250 USD. The price tag is on the higher end of the spectrum, but it is justified by the use of incredibly old and rare grain whiskeys to complement the older malt. The limited edition whiskey is packaged in a style that poses questions about what makes a luxury whiskey a ‘luxury.’ The price range is high, but it is worth it for whiskey enthusiasts who want to experience a unique and complex blend of rare whiskeys.
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Tasting Notes
Aroma
At first whiff, This Is Not a Luxury Whisky has a complex and mature nose that features dried fruit, maple syrup, and tea leaves. The sawdusty oak sits beneath, while a touch of citrus adds freshness. Tropical melon, apricot, and kiwi also make an appearance. The aroma is elegant and poised with a Cognac-esque character.
Flavor
On the palate, This Is Not a Luxury Whisky is fresh and citric, with honey and dusty oak. Apricot, melon, and guava notes are also present. The flavor is complex, rich, lightly smoky, and opulent. Sultanas, sweet sherry, and concentrated floral notes combine with deep demerara sweetness, cacao, and a lighter, creamy coconut character.
Finish
The finish is long and lingering, with notes of honey, citrus, and oak. It has a gentle, warming spice that complements the sweetness of the whisky. The finish is smooth and satisfying, leaving you with a pleasant aftertaste.
Rating
This Is Not a Luxury Whisky is a well-balanced and complex blend of old and rare grain whiskeys and malt. It has a unique character that sets it apart from other whiskies. I would rate it 8 out of 10. While it is expensive, it is worth the price for those who appreciate a high-quality whisky.
Mixing and Pairing
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Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Compass Box “This Is Not a Luxury Whisky,” I recommend keeping it simple. This whisky has a complex and rich flavor profile, so it’s best to stick to mixers that won’t overpower it. Some of the best mixers for this whisky include club soda, ginger ale, and even just a splash of water.
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Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re looking to create a cocktail with Compass Box “This Is Not a Luxury Whisky,” I suggest trying a classic Old Fashioned. This cocktail is simple to make and allows the flavor of the whisky to shine through. To make an Old Fashioned, simply muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of Angostura bitters, add a large ice cube, and pour in 2 ounces of the whisky. Garnish with an orange peel, and enjoy!
Another great cocktail to try with this whisky is a Manhattan. To make a Manhattan, mix 2 ounces of the whisky with 1 ounce of sweet vermouth and a dash of Angostura bitters. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a cherry and enjoy!
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Food Pairings
Compass Box “This Is Not a Luxury Whisky” pairs well with a variety of foods. Its rich and complex flavor profile makes it a great match for bold and flavorful dishes. Some food pairings to try with this whisky include smoked meats, dark chocolate, and aged cheeses. The whisky also pairs well with spicy dishes, as the heat helps to bring out the flavors in the whisky.
Conclusion
One of the key things that sets “This Is Not a Luxury Whisky” apart is the use of incredibly old and rare grain whiskies to complement the older malt. I highly recommend trying “This Is Not a Luxury Whisky” if you have the chance. While it may be on the pricier side, it is certainly worth it for the unique and unforgettable drinking experience it provides.
Related Posts
If you enjoyed my review of Compass Box “This Is Not a Luxury Whisky,” you might be interested in reading more about other unique and exciting whiskies. Here are a few related posts that you might find interesting:
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