Compass Box Flaming Heart Blended Malt Scotch Whisky Sixth Edition 750ml

The 2018 bottling of Flaming Heart blended malt from Compass Box is a powerful expression, filled to the brim with smoke and deliciousness. Those of you with very well-trained noses will catch notes of Caol Ila, Clynelish, and Deanston within this one, with a few more unnamed whiskies hiding within. 15,050 bottles were produced.

This new edition has reintroduced a subtle sherry-cask character. First released in 2006, the Flaming Heart was the first whisky to combine the robust flavors of Islay peated malt with the complex spice of new French oak. Compass Box is the leading bespoke blender in the U.K. They’re refining and redefining the often maligned category through innovative use of ultra high-quality malt and thoughtful barrel selection and management.

Inspired by a rock song, Compass Box Flaming Heart was first introduced in 2006. Like all previous editions, this one combines single malt aged in new heavily-toasted French oak with peat-fired malt from Islay. However, for this 2018 edition, the brand has reintroduced sherry casks to the mix, something that hadn’t been done since the 2012 release. The exact recipe is featured on the Compass Box website. This limited edition is comprised of 15,050 standard bottles along with 800 large formats (1.5L/1.75L) bottles.

In this 2018 edition, we have reintroduced a subtle sherry-cask influence that adds an additional layer of complexity and richness. A medium smoky-peaty base is enriched by a sweet maltiness and notes of baking spices and dried fruit. It’s a whisky to enjoy late into the night, perfect served neat or paired with rich cheeses.

Nose:

Coastal air and fiery peat, tempered by hints of honey on toast and vanilla pod.

Palate:

Continued smoke alongside drying Christmas spices and a very slight touch of raisin cookies.

Finish:

Oatcakes, salted butter, orange, and clove.