Compass Box Hedonism (2024 Release)

Compass Box has removed Hedonism from its main offerings. What has happened to the world?! To be serious, I'm very upset, but I get why they made this choice. Compass Box has raised the bar with more mature whiskies in the first limited annual Hedonism release. Is it different enough from the original Hedonism to make you rush out and buy a bottle? The aroma is deep, sweet, and rich, with vanilla, caramel, butterscotch, and honey creating a sweet, thick scent. The grain whisky character remains, complemented by a touch of baking spice and coconut to balance the intense sweetness. However, there's a noticeable ethanol heat on the nose that wasn't there before. The palate and finish bring back the original Hedonism feel but with added complexity. Milk chocolate and custard feature on the palate, with a hint of spicy peppercorn and vanilla appearing midway. The spice in this 2024 edition is intriguing; coconut shavings are still present, but the latter part of the taste has a peppercorn and clove character. The finish carries the peppercorn and clove. It has a decent mouthfeel but, surprisingly, a trace of orange pith emerges right at the very end. So, is it different from the old core Hedonism? Yes, quite different. It's a more complex, spicier, and bolder take on Hedonism, which was always creamy, soft, and sweet. I believe this 2024 version moves the whisky beyond its former status as a dedicated dessert dram. While still sweet, it offers much more. Taste is subjective, and while I'm not giving it a higher score than the original (in fact, it's the same), this bottle is worth the price at its recommended retail. However, I wouldn't pay inflated secondary market prices.

Sweet pears & green apples. Quite pleasant and easy to drink, with a cool label. Unfortunately, the higher price and 700ml bottle detract from it.