Compass Box, the maverick blender challenging whisky conventions, has crafted something truly extraordinary with Hedonism Quindecimus. This fifteen-year anniversary release is a grain whisky unlike any other, a limited edition masterpiece composed of a blend of whiskies aged between twenty and thirty-two years. It’s a bold statement from a distillery that’s never afraid to push boundaries.

Average Retail Price: $899

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Tasting Notes on Compass Box Hedonism 

Color: A pale, straw gold, with delicate legs that cling to the glass. 

Nose: The first whiff reveals an enchanting tapestry of aromas. Classic grain greeting with a creamy, buttery sweetness. But then, the complexity unfolds. There’s a floral elegance with notes of clover honey and beeswax. Tropical fruits, like bananas and green apples, a curious spice that hints at exotic cuisine – think coconut milk, lemongrass, and even curry leaf. It’s a captivating interplay of sweet and savory. A splash of water unveils a more syrupy fruit profile, with gooseberry and elderflower taking center stage.

Palate: Initially soft and delicate, with flavors of beeswax, vanilla, and angel food cake. However, a subtle bitterness emerges, akin to charred sugar and heavy oak. Yet, amidst this, there’s a refreshing brightness from lemon verbena and lemongrass. The addition of water is transformative, taming the bitterness and unveiling a sweeter, more harmonious profile with notes of madeleines and coconut milk.

Finish: The finish is surprisingly long, with a buttery-sweet character. Shea butter and coconut milk linger, along with a refreshing citrus tang of pomelo and lime. It’s lively and exotic and stands on its own, incomparable to any other dram. 

Overall Impression

While grain whisky often takes a backseat to its malted cousin, Quindecimus is a revelation. It’s complex, intriguing, and utterly delicious – a testament to Compass Box’s artistry and a must-try for any whisky enthusiast.

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Have you had the opportunity to taste Compass Box Hedonism Quindecimus? Share your thoughts and impressions in the comments below.