Compass Box Whisky Co. Oak Cross

Back in 2000, John Glaser believed there were too many companies making and selling Scotch whisky the same way. An American, transplanted to the UK and working for a large distiller, he wanted to do things differently to bring the joys of Scotch whisky to more people.

So, he set up a different kind of Scotch whisky company, based on the long-lost model of the Scotch whisky blending house, but with a forward-looking approach and an unrelenting desire to create quality. He originally launched the business from his kitchen, but today, over a decade later, Compass Box has an office and Blending Room in London, its own stocks of maturing whiskies in Scotland, and just over a dozen employees.

In an industry that has steadfastly remained committed to ‘the way we’ve always done things’, at Compass Box we focus relentlessly on creativity, process innovations, and exploring the many ways we all can enjoy the pleasures of Scotch whisky.

With more spectrum of flavour and style than any other spirit, they believe Scotch whisky is one of the world’s great drinks. They are here to help ensure it stays that way for generations to come.

Compass Box's Signature Range showcases the diverse and stunning spectrum of styles that can be created within the Scotch style today. From sweet and unctuous to big and peaty, it is an exploration of Compass Box’s contribution to date of pushing the category forward.

This whisky is called 'Oak Cross' because it offers the best characteristics of both American and French oak aging. All the whisky is aged in American oak casks before placing a portion into innovative hybrid casks featuring heavily toasted new French oak heads. These give the whisky an added richness and spice-like complexity. By carefully blending back the French oak-aged whisky with its American oak-aged forebear, they create a refined, rich, but well-mannered malt whisky.

Made entirely of Highland single malt whiskies from the villages of Clynelish (fruitiness), Dailuaine (meatiness) and Teaninich (perfume). The whiskies are then aged for their primary maturation in a mix of American oak cask types. The marrying casks are a mix of first-fill Bourbon barrels and Compass Box's proprietary “Oak Cross” casks made of American and new French oaks (the same casks used in their 'Spice Tree' whisky).

Tasting Notes
On the palate, notes of clove and vanilla accent a sweet maltiness and subtle fruity aspects that will remind you of baked apple or pears, complemented by a rich, toasty oak character.