Compass Box’s Limited Edition Magic Cask Set for February 2021

In 2016, Compass Box re-racked one-year-old malt spirit of robust character into first fill Oloroso-seasoned butts. By 2019, one particular cask – #2 – proved so compelling that they began to experiment. Beginning in early February 2021, Compass Box will release Magic Cask, a Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, in limited quantities nationwide.Magic Cask Compass Box

“Sometimes just one cask in a blend of many can provide the touch of magic that allows the whole arrangement to sing,” says Compass Box Founder and Whiskymaker John Glaser. “We first took advantage of this phenomenon in 2006 when an experimental whisky, finished in an ex-Madeira barrique, led to the limited edition bottling we called Magic Cask. In 2021, we’re delighted to be able to share with you again the magical influence one exceptional cask – a Sherry-seasoned cask in this case – can have on a recipe.”

Whiskymaker James Saxon adds, “We have had samples of whisky from the lost Imperial Distillery in our Blending Room for some time. Aged in first fill Bourbon barrels, the spirit is brimming with fruit and vanilla notes and exhibits a lovely tongue-clinging texture. However, finding the right project and accompaniments to this parcel of single malt proved a challenge. Then, last year, we discovered cask #2 amongst samples drawn from our 2016 Sherry cask maturation experiment. Full to the brim with cherry fruit and cedar spice character, it was a remarkably precocious whisky. When combined with the parcel from the lost distillery, it created an exceptionally rich and layered blended malt Scotch whisky.”

Compass Box Magic Cask

Magic Cask Tasting Notes:
(46% ABV; 750ml, $175 SRP, 1,800 bottles available in the U.S.)
Aromas of marmalade and chai tea spices, with hints of plum. Ripe golden dessert apples dominate the luscious palate, supported by an oaky richness. Flavours of toffee and cocoa powder are also conjured up.

Technical Details:
Blended Malt Scotch Whisky bottled at 46%; natural color; not chill-filtered

Serving Recommendations:
Savor Magic Cask neat, as a digestif, to appreciate its power and depth.

Magic Cask joins other recently launched limited edition whiskies Hedonism Felicitas, Rogues’ Banquet and Peat Monster Arcana from Compass Box.