Compass Box Enlightenment

The Enlightenment was an era of intellectual freedom. One could argue that today, with the vast flow of information available, we should possess even greater intellectual freedom, yet it feels like the opposite is true. With that said, to be free is Compass Box's ultimate objective in whisky. Enlightenment is their endeavor to honor whisky's wisdom, and naturally, they've disclosed all components in this blend, as they consistently do. Bottled at 46% ABV, this blend comprises whiskies from Clynelish, Glentauchers, Balblair & Mortlach. On the nose, extremely fruity. Green grapes, green apples. Honey, pears, and peaches. Faint sugar and a Sharpie marker. After a few sips, it presented red apples with toffee. Cocoa and Fanta cola. On the palate, it remains very fruity. Grapefruit, gooseberries, a little spicy. It's like rich and elegant sugary water. Easy to enjoy. The aftertaste is undeniably the highlight. Metallic, sulfuric, red chili. A delightful spiciness. It's a long yet somehow subdued or ethereal finish. Overall, this is a sophisticated whisky, with an attractive label and the creamy profile characteristic of most Compass Box blends, making this a truly pleasant dram. I would have appreciated a touch of peat to enhance it further. An honest 88 out of 100 is a fitting score for this dram.

This is a well-integrated blend, but its purpose is unclear. The nose offers notes of powdered white chocolate, dry earth, pressed vanilla, and cream. The palate is smooth, silky, and mirrors the bouquet. Flavors include vanilla cream, malt chocolate, dried oranges, unripened melon, and a subtle hint of peat. A long finish makes this a satisfying drink on its own or a fine way to begin a meal. This expression does not challenge you (though whisky is not required to) nor does it seem particularly unique. In fact, it brings to mind whiskies from the English Whisky Co., Young Balblair (which I understand is part of the blend but not a substantial amount), and shows some similarity to Balvenie Ex-Bourbon First Fill. So, the components work together harmoniously but only to replicate a style that has already been well established.

Even with a superior nosing glass to the glencairn, the alcohol still stings the nose. Aside from that, it is surprisingly subtle. Nose: Apple-scented wax with a whisper of vanilla. Perhaps floral notes like lavender? Hints of orange, lemon, and other citrus. Overwhelming apple presence. Light honey. Earthy notes of grass, mint, and rosemary. A subtle nutty undertone. Palate: Distinctly waxy. The scented candle and honey notes return, alongside citrus. Pears and apples are also present. Finish: Lingering spice. Unexpected orange peel notes emerge. A whisper of toasted coconut. Its pale hue resembles white wine. However, its fruitiness and waxy character are exceptional.

Hmm, I was enlightened as to the contents but then the enlightenment ended there really. A bit of spice, a bit of honey, a bit of this and that. A few drops of water didn't really enlighten me further... three enlightenments and out!

Tastes like apple juice, with herbal spice, honey, and grassy notes. Very refreshing, with a slight bitter finish,

A very good blend. Well executed by Compass Box. 👍🥃