The Spice Tree Extravaganza CB (Compass Box)

The Spice Tree Extravaganza CB (Compass Box) is a blended malt Scotch from Compass Box. It marries single malts from more than one distillery, Dailuaine among them. It sits near Aberlour, in the heart of Speyside by the River Spey.

Dailuaine's smooth, sweet malt is the kind that built Johnnie Walker. Ex-Bourbon casks held it, the oak letting the heavy, malty character lead. Years in oak round the spirit, the fruit deepening to dried fruit and a savoury spice. A first fill sherry cask suits the robust spirit, dried fruit meeting the meaty weight. Its rich, robust malt has long been a backbone of the Johnnie Walker blends. Maturation in the cool north east keeps the rich spirit balanced over the years. Long ageing turns the fresh fruit towards dried fruit, fig, leather and a warm spice. It had its own railway siding and a little locomotive, Dailuaine No.1, known as the Puggy.

Reduced to 46%, it is mellow. Soft orchard fruit, honey and a gentle spice run through it, smooth and approachable. Beneath it run dried fruit, malt and a savoury edge. The finish is long, rich and savoury. A characterful blended malt Scotch.