A little background
Compass Box Brûlée Royale Blended Malt Scotch Whisky is a limited edition expression from the innovative Scotch whiskymakers at Compass Box, known for their creative approach to blending. This whisky, bottled at 49% ABV (98 proof) in 700ml bottles, carries a suggested retail price of $159.99 and is limited to 8,556 bottles worldwide. The blend primarily features single malts from Clynelish and Benrinnes distilleries, with contributions from Speyburn and Ardbeg, aged in specially toasted and charred American white oak barrels to enhance the whisky’s rich, dessert-like character.
Inspired by the 17th-century creation of Crème Brûlée by Chef François Massialot at the Palace of Versailles, Brûlée Royale reflects Compass Box’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of Scotch whisky. The blend showcases their expertise in crafting unique flavor profiles, with casks selected to evoke the indulgent sweetness and complexity of caramelized sugar, making it a distinctive addition to their portfolio of experimental and compelling whiskies.
(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)
Color
Straw
Nose
Lemon, buttered rum, vanilla, baking spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, and clover) apricot, spice cake, and fresh apple cider.
Palate
Honey, lemon, baking spice, vanilla, peach, custard, malt cereal, and oak.
Finish
Baking spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, white pepper), oak, Banana’s Foster, lingering malt.
In closing
Compass Box Brûlée Royale Blended Malt Scotch Whisky delivers a compelling sensory experience with its complex nose of lemon, buttered rum, vanilla, and baking spices, a palate rich with honey, peach, and custard, and a finish marked by lingering malt and Banana’s Foster notes. Its medium viscosity and approachable, sweet flavor profile make it highly enjoyable, though a slight bitterness tempers the experience. While the whisky’s $159.99 price point raises concerns about value, especially when compared to numerous outstanding single malts available at similar cost (or less), the incredible bottle design and lush artwork—depicting a surreal scene of alchemy and mastery in the Versailles Palace kitchens where Chef Massialot created his iconic Crème Brûlée—add a unique allure that elevates the overall experience and may justify the premium for collectors and enthusiasts of Compass Box’s innovative branding.
NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Compass Box Whisky. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.
Compass Box BRÛLÉE ROYALE Blended Malt Scotch Whisky
The Good
- Complex nose
- Bottle design
The Bad
- High price point
