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8.7

Compass Box Peat Monster 2012

Name: Compass Box Peat Monster 2012
Brand: Compass Box Peat Monster 2012

Scotland Malt Score: 8.7/10

Compass Box Peat Monster 2012 is a highly acclaimed Malt whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 8.7/10, it features distinctive notes of Almond, Ash, Caramel. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking malt expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

The Compass Box Peat Monster 2012 is a blended malt Scotch whisky made from a selection of heavily peated single malts, predominantly sourced from Islay distilleries. The goal of Peat Monster is always to showcase the smoky, earthy qualities of peat without overwhelming the drinker with brute force, and the 2012 version is no exception. It is bottled at a strength of 46% ABV, which allows for full flavor expression without overpowering the palate. The 2012 release features a blend of young and older whiskies, and the interplay between the peated malts, along with the delicate influence of the casks, helps create a dynamic whisky with layers of flavor. It strikes a balance between the robust, smoky notes and more complex sweet, spicy, and fruity elements.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: The nose of the Peat Monster 2012 immediately announces itself with a strong peat influence, but it’s more layered and inviting than the intense bonfire smoke that some other heavily peated whiskies possess. There’s a clear presence of smoke, reminiscent of wet ashes, tar, and smoldering wood, with the characteristic briny, medicinal notes of Islay peated whiskies. However, it’s not just smoke; underneath the peat, there are layers of sweetness—honey, vanilla, and toffee—that round out the experience. As the whisky opens up, hints of dried fruits (apricots, raisins) emerge, along with subtle floral notes and a touch of citrus peel. There’s a light spice as well—perhaps a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg—along with a delicate nuttiness, like almonds or hazelnuts. The nose is bold but sophisticated, with enough sweetness and complexity to keep it from being dominated by the peat.

TASTE: On the palate, Peat Monster 2012 delivers a rich and smoky experience with layers of complexity. The peat is prominent, but it’s not overwhelming—it’s earthy and medicinal, with smoky, briny notes. There’s a nice balance of sweetness from the malt, with flavors of honey, vanilla, and soft caramel. A hint of dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, apricots) provides a touch of fruitiness, while the underlying oak gives some subtle spice and warmth. There’s a slight creaminess to the texture, which adds to the richness of the whisky. The smoke and sweetness continue to dance on the tongue, with the peat gradually becoming more prominent as the whisky develops. The combination of sweet, fruity, and smoky elements creates a smooth, well-rounded mouthfeel, which is often the hallmark of Compass Box’s blended malts.

FINISH: The finish is long and warming, with the peat lingering beautifully. It’s not a harsh, drying finish but rather a gentle fade of smoke, with hints of dried fruit, toffee, and a touch of oak spice. There’s a light bitterness from the oak, and a faint briny note reminds you of the maritime character typical of peated Islay whiskies. The sweetness that lingers on the palate softens the smoky aftertaste, giving the whisky a smooth, satisfying conclusion.

Flavor Profile

Almond Ash Caramel Cinnamon Dried Hazelnut Honey Nutmeg Oak Peat Smoke Sultana Toffee Vanilla

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User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Compass Box Peat Monster 2012

What type of whiskey is Compass Box Peat Monster 2012?

Compass Box Peat Monster 2012 is a Malt whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Compass Box Peat Monster 2012?

For the best tasting experience, pour Compass Box Peat Monster 2012 into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Compass Box Peat Monster 2012?

Compass Box Peat Monster 2012 pairs excellently with smoked salmon, oysters, and strong cheeses. The smoky character matches beautifully with seafood and robust flavors.

What are the main flavor notes in Compass Box Peat Monster 2012?

The flavor profile of Compass Box Peat Monster 2012 features Almond, Ash, Caramel, Cinnamon, Dried. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that has been highly praised by critics and enthusiasts alike.