Crimson Casks

Compass Box was founded in 1999 by American John Glaser on a simple conviction: blended whisky deserves respect, and transparency shouldn't be controversial. Crimson Casks, released in 2024, proves the point entirely. The name is literal—the whisky is built on sherry and red wine casks, specifically ex-Oloroso butts (around 73%), supplemented by red wine barrels and a smaller portion of ex-bourbon. This cask selection was deliberate: chosen for the deep crimson hue and the intense notes of raisin, cherry, and dark chocolate they deliver to the blend.

Every aspect of Crimson Casks flows from that sherry and wine maturation. On the nose, layers of dried fruit, red berries, and subtle spice emerge. The palate is full and sweet—toffee, honey, dark chocolate—anchored by fine spices: clove, cardamom, cinnamon. The finish lingers with raisins, vanilla, and oak tannins that don't dominate but frame the fruit.

This is a blend that announces itself without apology. Intense, layered, rewarding curiosity with richness and brightness in equal measure. Drink it neat to experience the full architecture, or pour it over ice cream—the fig and cinnamon notes will surprise you.