In the late 19th century, the Aesthetic Movement sparked a radical shift in the world of art, paving the way for the Decadent Movement. This era, epitomized by figures like Oscar Wilde and Aubrey Beardsley, reveled in abundance, pleasure, and the pursuit of beauty for its own sake. It is within this extravagant backdrop that Art & Decadence, a blended Scotch whisky, finds its inspiration. Crafted as a limited edition with a mere 9,496 bottles, this indulgent elixir is designed to be a sensory journey, a celebration of opulence in both flavor and design.
Decadence in Design:
Art & Decadence doesn't just stop at its luxurious taste; its packaging is a testament to the movement it honors. The label and outer packaging exude extravagance, echoing the ornate patterns and sensuality that defined the Decadent Movement. Beauty, excess, and ornamentation are not only the descriptors of the whisky but also the guiding principles behind its decadent design.
The Whisky's Origins:
This luscious libation is the brainchild of lead Whiskymaker James Saxon. The foundation is laid with malt whisky from the Balmenach Distillery, a robust base enriched with succulence, preserved fruit notes, and honeyed character from separate finishes in Madeira, Sauternes, and Marsala wine casks. Layering complexity, malt whisky from Linkwood Distillery, aged in Palo Cortado sherry-seasoned butts, and Glen Moray Distillery's malt whisky, finished in Oloroso sherry-seasoned butts, are introduced. The silk and gloss of grain whisky from the now-closed Port Dundas Distillery complete this harmonious blend.
A Rebellion in a Bottle:
Channeling the spirit of the bold young radicals of the Aesthetic Movement, Art & Decadence becomes a form of rebellion itself. Inspired by those who believed that art and beauty should reign supreme, this whisky is a nod to the pursuit of pleasure and indulgence above all else. It stands as a testament to embracing opulence, exoticism, and excess in a world that was increasingly industrialized and devoid of soul.
Flavors to Delight the Senses:
The whisky's rich and aromatic nose invites with red apples, waxed wood, and wine notes. A creamy liquorice aroma introduces strong notes of banana, toffee, and custard blended with Sauternes. Upon tasting, the palate is enveloped by dried fruit notes—golden raisin, apricot, and apple—layered with plenty of vanilla. The journey concludes with lingering flavors of dark chocolate shavings and fragrant oak, creating a decadent symphony of taste.
Serving Recommendations:
Art & Decadence is not just a drink; it's an experience. With a robust 49% alcohol by volume, it demands attention and reverence. The recommended setting for this extraordinary whisky is the final course of a lavish dinner when puddings, cakes, tarts, jellies, chocolates, and cheeses emerge. This is the moment for true decadence, and Art & Decadence is the perfect companion.
Conclusion:
In a world where unnecessary things have become necessities, Art & Decadence stands as a beacon of rebellion, inviting enthusiasts to embrace the luxurious, the opulent, and the beautiful. From its decadent design inspired by the Aesthetic Movement to the harmonious blend of whiskies that compose it, Art & Decadence is a celebration of indulgence—a truly unforgettable, intensely pleasurable dram that elevates decadence to an art form.
Shop Compass Box
- Master Of Malt (UK/WW)
- The Whisky Exchange (UK/WW)
- ReserveBar (US)
- Drizly (US)
- Wine.com (US)
About The Compass Box
Compass Box is an innovative Scotch whisky blending company that has gained recognition for its commitment to creativity, transparency, and the art of blending. Founded by John Glaser in 2000, Compass Box has challenged traditional conventions in the whisky industry by focusing on the art and science of crafting unique blended whiskies rather than adhering strictly to single malt or single grain categories.
One of the distinguishing features of Compass Box is its emphasis on transparency. The company provides detailed information about the constituent whiskies in each blend, including their sources, ages, and cask types. This openness allows consumers to better understand and appreciate the components that contribute to the complexity of Compass Box whiskies.
Compass Box offers a diverse range of blended Scotch whiskies, each with its own distinctive profile. Popular expressions include "The Spice Tree," known for its rich and spicy character, and "Hedonism," a blended grain whisky celebrated for its creamy and vanilla-forward notes. The company also releases limited-edition and experimental bottlings, showcasing their dedication to pushing the boundaries of whisky blending.
In addition to its commitment to transparency, Compass Box is known for its meticulous approach to cask selection and maturation. The company often experiments with different types of oak casks, including first-fill bourbon barrels, new French oak, and custom-made hybrid casks. This focus on wood management contributes to the complexity and depth of flavor in their whiskies.
Compass Box has earned numerous awards and accolades for its whiskies, and it has become a favorite among whisky enthusiasts who appreciate the company's dedication to quality, innovation, and transparency. The artistic labels on Compass Box bottles, designed by Stranger & Stranger, further emphasize the company's creative and contemporary approach to the world of Scotch whisky.
