Compass Box Nectarosity

A new core product from this brand, you say? While I regret their choice to make one of their spirits a limited, annual release, I am quite happy to see them introduce two more blends to their main lineup. Very citrusy on the nose with bright orange peel highlighted by a subtle pear tart with candied pears, cinnamon, and buttery pastry. Some tannic oak and honey are also present in that mix. The palate is incredibly bright and lively. Zest, sweetness, and spice are all vying for attention here. Orange and vanilla begin the taste, then around the middle, a touch of creamy caramel before shifting towards dry and spicy. Toasted grain and tannic oak with a surprising raspberry tartness just before the finish. Lemon zest on the finish along with a lingering cinnamon spice tingle, then it transitions to tannic black tea which works well with that bitter-tart lemon zest. This is a blend absolutely bursting with vibrancy. Citrus is clearly the dominant flavor. Truly distinctive and I would expect nothing less from this brand.

92 proof. Matured in former bourbon and sherry casks. Peat, toasted barley, apples, smoky buttered corn, grapes, vanilla, pineapple, caramel, salt, brown sugar, charred oak, thick texture, chocolate cake, peaches, strawberry cake, toffee.

Delicate, with fruit notes, somewhat lacking body but a nice end.

From a whiskey festival.