Compass Box Juveniles (2018)

Compass Box Juveniles was first launched in 2003 or 2004 as a custom bottling for a wine bar in Paris with the same name. Later (2007, 2014…) new versions were launched and the latest one was bottled in September 2018.

As the original malts (Clynelish, Longmorn and Ord) were hard to source, other distilleries were used, keeping the bright, smooth, non-smoky profile. Here’s the new recipe:

• 34% Strathmill (Hogshead)
• 34% Balmenach (Hogshead)
• 30% Clynelish (20% Recharred barrel, 10% refill Sherry)
• 2% Glendullan (1st fill Sherry)

Compass Box Juveniles (46%, Compass Box 2018, 14.894 btl.)

Nose: gentle and bright indeed, with juicy pear, apricot, vanilla cream and a sweet sugary theme. White chocolate and lemon peel. Soft waxy notes and honey. Even though there’s only 30% Clynelish, it is still the dominant profile I would say.

Mouth: again this oily style, with hints of vanilla, coconut and ginger. Tart peach, green apples, lemons and a hint of pepper. Shortbread cookies. Zesty / grassy notes towards the end.

Finish: a bit short and light, with a fruity sweetness and grassy oak.

A good composition, but a rather light aperitif-style whisky with less complexity and less excitement than we’re used to get in Compass Box products. Not a must-buy, but I would be happy to see it in a restaurant indeed. Available from Master of Malt or The Whisky Exchange among others.

Score: 81/100