Compass Box Crimson Casks Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (46%)

Crimson Casks is a blended malt Scotch whisky from Compass Box, created by whiskymaker James Saxon as part of the brand's permanent Core Four range. It is matured largely in first-fill Oloroso sherry butts and red wine casks, with ex-bourbon and custom French oak barrels in support. The malts include Glen Moray, Benrinnes and Teaninich, along with a share from a distillery near Aberlour. Bottled at 46%, it is natural colour and non-chill filtered. The nose is sweet dark cherry, pomegranate and molasses with dark chocolate brownie and clove. The palate brings chilli dark chocolate, plum jam and redcurrant jelly, and the finish is long, with rooibos tea, honey-roasted cashews and dry cinnamon.