Compass Box Delos
The Compass Box Delos is a remarkable blend that captures the essence of 20-years matured grain whisky and selected malts. At 49% alcohol by volume, it showcases the craftsmanship of independent bottler Compass Box. The whisky contains ingredients from the closed Imperial distillery and Glen Elgin - a dream for connoisseurs seeking historical and flavourful depth.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The Delos impresses with a wonderfully fresh bouquet from the very first sniff. Intense notes of ripe pear, honey and vanilla dominate, accompanied by delicate oak and a slightly resinous undertone. A hint of lemongrass and floral accents, combined with maltiness à la butter biscuits, creates an almost tropical atmosphere: dragon fruit, apricot and pineapple combine to create a waxy, elegant flavour that invites you to savour it.
Palate
The sophistication continues seamlessly on the palate. The Compass Box Delos is ultra-creamy, soft and round, with an impressive complexity. Old oak provides an elegant structure, while the fruity pear and citrus notes retain freshness. Floral nuances and subtle herbal spice add depth, while the cereal notes pay homage to bourbon maturation.
Finish
The medium-length finish leaves a pleasant echo of intense oak. Green tea rounds off the experience and adds a slightly bitter note that emphasises the full-bodied character of Delos.
Thoughts
Marcel 87/100
With the Compass Box Delos, you experience a blend that’s simply a joy – creamy, fruity, and full of character, inviting both enjoyment and admiration. For anyone looking for a whisky with charm and a touch of history, it’s a genuine highlight not to be missed.
Sascha 85/100
The Delos impresses with its well-balanced interplay between creamy texture and complex structure, where the influences of the closed Imperial distillery are subtle yet distinctly present. A very balanced blend that delivers technically with its fine oak spice and multifaceted fruit notes.
Value for Money: No rating
Discover our value for money winnersThis product was kindly provided to us by Kirsch Import. This does not influence our rating. No payments or other benefits were received in exchange for this provision.
Related Reviews
Teeling Rose Wine Cask (2022)
In 2015, the Teeling Distillery revived whiskey production in Dublin. With their craft distillery in the Liberties, they honor Irish tradition while bringing a modern twist. This Teeling Rosé Wine Cask is part of their innovative lineup – but what does it have to offer?
77/100
Compass Box Metropolis
The Compass Box Metropolis is intended to tell the story of urbanity. After 12 years pre-blended - married and returned to the cask - the whisky matured for a further 12 to 15 years in sherry casks. The ingredients are mainly from the Aberlour and Miltonduff distilleries, with a small proportion of Bowmore added for the industrial style.
84/100
Blackwater The Full Irish (2024)
The Blackwater distillery from Ireland presents us here with a whisky at 48.5% vol. that stubbornly refuses to reveal its age. Perhaps it is still too young to talk about it? At this price, you would think that at least a few years could be written on the bottle, but no - the secret of eternal youth reigns here.
79/100Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Compass Box Delos special compared to other blended whiskies?
The Compass Box Delos combines 20-years grain whisky with selected malt whiskies, including rare stocks from the closed Imperial distillery and Glen Elgin. This blend gives it an exceptional depth and complexity that is rare among many blends.
How does the high alcohol strength of 49% affect the taste and aroma of the Delos?
At 49% ABV, the Delos offers an intense aromatic profile and a full-bodied texture without coming across as harsh. The higher strength amplifies the fruity, floral, and woody notes, creating a lively and complex tasting experience.
What role does bourbon maturation play in the character of the Compass Box Delos?
Bourbon cask maturation contributes the grainy, vanilla, and honeyed nuances that give the Delos its creaminess and sweetness. At the same time, aging in oak barrels provides the elegant structure and spicy wood notes that define the whisky.