Compass Box Spice Tree

January 17, 2012

Compass Box was founded in 2000 by American, John Glaser with the intention of producing high-quality, small-batch artisan Scotch Whisky. As an outsider to the world of Scotch he was free, though still respectful of, the heavy burden of tradition. After leaving the wine industry Glaser learned his craft in one of Scotland’s largest whisky companies. He went on to unleash his imagination and innovation under the guise of Compass Box, initially fine tuning blends in his kitchen. He has now developed a range of unique whiskies in distinctive and diverse styles.

The Spice Tree Whisky has caused more controversy than most, borne from Glaser’s desire to use new oak in the maturation process as he had seen done so many times in wine production. In its original incarnation it was banned by the Scottish Whisky Association due to the use of new oak staves in barrel during maturation – cue a flurry of media coverage of the ‘illegal whisky’ resulting in stock selling out. After three years of experimentation with their Scottish cooper and French oak supplier Compass box circumvented this difficulty by developing barrels with new oak heads, of varying degrees of toastiness, to achieve the very specific flavour profile that was required.

And the resultant whisky was worth the wait. This is a big, rich and bold whisky with aromas of clove, nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon and vanilla. The palate is full around with the Highland characteristics enhanced by spice and vanilla.

Spice Tree will be available to taste at our Burns’ Night Whisky tasting at the Livery Street shop on Wednesday 25^th January. £15 per head. Call 0121 236 9269 for info and tickets.

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