Compass Box remain one of the more intriguing whisky companies. Halfway through 2024 this blending house revamped its core range. It now includes the Compass Box Nectarosity, an American oak-forward blend I’ll review today.
The other new inductee, Crimson Casks, is a blended malt with sherry influences. Where two new kids were introduced, it also meant axing a pair of stables, The Spice Tree and The Story of the Spaniard. Trusty favourites The Peat Monster and Orchard House will remain a part of Compass Box’s core range.
The new range was introduced following the departure of Compass Box founder John Glaser, but he was said to be closely involved with the development of the new whiskies. The revamp was partly the result of stock restriction, explains James Saxon, the current whisky-making director.

He said, “We couldn’t grow all the products that we were making, but we also wanted to make the range more legible. ‘Compass’ gives a clue about navigation – and we thought we could do a better job of that navigation.”
The full recipe of the Compass Box Nectarosity can be found on the company’s website. Clynelish and Girvan account for about 35% of the recipe, but drive much of the flavour profile, according to Saxon. Other malt whisky distilleries include Linkwood and Balmenach. The grain component also includes a fair bit of Cameronbridge.

Compass Box Nectarosity (46%, OB, 2024)
Nose: Plenty of pollen and honey-esque aromas, and I’m not just saying that because of the suggestive name. A good amount of oranges, some gentle candy-esque notes (think Love Hearts), and then tinned peaches, jammy apricots and Werther’s Original.
Taste: A pleasant creamy mouthfeel with a tinge of cloves, but also a fair amount of fudge, dark caramel and a sprinkle of cinnamon. There’s a sliver of stewed apple too, as well as bananas and a soft leafy bitterness. Also a touch of clotted cream, gingerbread and come oak char.
Finish: Short to medium length. A hint of butter, some nutmeg and a tinge of citrus.