Compass Box Ultramarine

There's a new collection from Compass Box, and if you found their artistic labels impressive, you have no idea about these new expressions. The Extinct Blends Quartet collection features a series of bottles that pay tribute to famous blends that are no longer produced. Their debut release was named Ultramarine. It comes in a vintage-looking bottle with a robust 51% ABV to enhance flavor. This bottling specifically honors the discontinued Johnnie Walker Oldest, which is the predecessor to today's Johnnie Blue Label. On the nose, it's very good. Smoky with some initial coconut notes. It evokes a Piña Colada cocktail or Sambuca liqueur. Cream, fondant, and ashes are present. A subtle lemon note lends a tropical character to this dram. It's reminiscent of Crème Brûlée and Hawaiian Tropic sunblock. On the palate, it's absolutely exceptional. It has a thick, creamy, and rich body. Notes of cake, coconut, and intense saltiness are present. It tastes like a salty vanilla cookie. Danish butter cookies. Delicious. The aftertaste provides a superb conclusion to an outstanding dram. Wasabi, gunpowder, and bonfire notes emerge. A full yet refined coconut flavor. Very satisfying. Overall, it might be quite expensive, but it delivers so many flavors and aromas that it certainly feels worth every penny. This initial release could be one of the finest Compass Box expressions ever, and I would definitely purchase another before its price skyrockets. A truly magnificent whisky, my rating for it is 94 out of 100.

The aroma develops as the pour rests for 15-20 minutes. Subtle spice, mild sweetness, and moderate oak balance a delicate maltiness. A touch of peat also subtly appears on the palate. An outstanding pour.

A delightful peaty aroma, with intriguing herbaceous and minty hints. Perhaps some citrus notes are present. It has a medium body and a fine, gentle smoke that lingers on the extended finish. Quite fascinating!