Experience Compass Box Celestial, the final and most expansive release in the acclaimed Extinct Blends Quartet—a limited edition blended Scotch whisky inspired by the extravagant, smoky blends of the 1960s. Crafted by Lead Whiskymaker James Saxon using rare single malts from legendary distilleries like Ardbeg, Caol Ila, and Pulteney, Celestial delivers a robust profile with heavyweight peat smoke reminiscent of beach bonfires and coastal smokehouses, layered with gingery richness, vanilla, and grilled apples, evolving into dry oak, meaty smokiness, and cooked tropical fruits. Bottled at 50% ABV, non-chill filtered, and presented in natural color, only 5,532 bottles of this collector’s masterpiece were produced, making Celestial a must-have for aficionados seeking a bold, mature Scotch that celebrates the lost artistry of classic peated blends.
Process & Profile
Celestial is Compass Box’s most expansive and peatiest creation yet, with only 5,532 bottles released worldwide. Crafted under the guidance of Lead Whiskymaker James Saxon, the blend draws inspiration from historical peated whiskies and features malt components from iconic distilleries such as Ardbeg, Caol Ila, Glen Elgin, and Pulteney. Bottled at a robust 50% ABV, Celestial is non-chill filtered and presented in its natural color, ensuring maximum flavor and authentic character. This whisky is a modern homage to the powerful, smoky blends of the 1950s and 1960s—bold, complex, and deeply layered, with a nod to both the “equine theme” and the legendary Pegasus of myth, echoing its skyward aspirations.
Tasting Notes
Nose:
- Heavyweight peat smoke reminiscent of a beach bonfire, evolving to rich coastal smokehouse aromas
- Undercurrents of ginger, vanilla sweetness, and crisp grilled apples
Palate:
- Dry and oak-forward with a robust, meaty smokiness
- Gingery richness, vanilla, grilled apples, and a seamless transition into cooked tropical fruits
Finish:
- Long and satisfying, with lingering peaty notes, subtle sea air, and a touch of fruit
What Makes It Special
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Final Release: Marks the conclusion of the celebrated Extinct Blends Quartet, making it a true collector's item.
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Limited Edition: Only 5,532 bottles released worldwide, each a tribute to a vanished era of Scotch blending.
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Peat Mastery: The peatiest and most layered Compass Box blend to date, reviving an extinct style of whisky.
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Rich Heritage: Features malts from legendary distilleries, with flavors inspired by prized 1960s blends once crafted for whisky barons.
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Artistic Presentation: The bottle and label feature Pegasus and celestial motifs, capturing the whisky’s theme of adventure and transformation.
How to Enjoy
Celestial is best enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its intricate smokiness and mature complexity. A splash of water can unlock further layers of flavor and aroma, while its bold character also shines as the centerpiece for gatherings—perfect for expansive conversations among friends. For whisky aficionados and collectors, Celestial promises not just immediate enjoyment but lasting value as a display-worthy collectible destined to age gracefully.
Embrace the extraordinary with Compass Box Celestial: a cosmic journey through clouds of smoke and celestial flavor, designed to delight both seasoned Scotch lovers and adventurous newcomers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Compass Box Celestial and what makes it special?
Compass Box Celestial is a limited edition blended Scotch whisky and the final release in the Extinct Blends Quartet series. Inspired by extravagant 1960s blends and featuring an equine (Pegasus) theme, Celestial is crafted to evoke the bold, smoky character of bygone Scotch, with only 5,532 bottles produced worldwide.
What is the flavor profile of Celestial?
Celestial opens with robust, heavyweight peat smoke reminiscent of a beach bonfire that develops into the richness of a coastal smokehouse. Layers of gingery spice, sweet vanilla, and grilled apples emerge, leading to an oak-forward palate with meaty smokiness, cooked tropical fruits, and a lingering, subtly salty finish.
Which distilleries contributed to Celestial’s blend?
Celestial features malt whiskies from illustrious Scottish distilleries, including Ardbeg and Caol Ila, delivering intense smokiness, as well as Glen Elgin and Pulteney, which add creamy oak and bright, fruity elements.
What is the ABV and is Celestial chill-filtered?
Celestial is bottled at 50% ABV (100 proof). It is non-chill filtered and features natural color, ensuring full flavor and mouthfeel.
How limited is this release?
Only 5,532 bottles of Compass Box Celestial were produced, making it a highly collectible item among whisky enthusiasts.
How should Celestial be enjoyed?
Celestial is best appreciated neat or with a splash of water to reveal its complexity. Its bold and expansive flavors make it ideal for sharing during thoughtful gatherings or savoring quietly, allowing the whisky’s journey through smoke and fruit to unfold.
What does the ‘Extinct Blends Quartet’ refer to?
The Extinct Blends Quartet is a celebratory series from Compass Box, reviving and reimagining flavors from famous blended Scotch whiskies of the past that are “extinct” or no longer produced. Celestial concludes this innovative tribute to lost whisky styles.
What is the story behind the Pegasus and celestial theme?
Celestial’s packaging and concept are inspired by Pegasus, the winged horse from Greek mythology, representing a transformative journey from earth to sky. This theme reflects the whisky’s expansive, cloud-like smokiness and sense of discovery.
Is Celestial suitable for collectors?
With its limited release, distinctive artwork, and homage to legendary vintage blends, Celestial is both a sensory delight and a valuable addition for collectors seeking rare, story-rich bottles.
Are there any special serving or pairing recommendations?
The richness and complexity of Celestial make it the perfect centerpiece for gatherings with friends and its flavors pair well with robust cheeses, smoked meats, or simply enjoyed on its own as a contemplative sipper.
Is Compass Box Celestial a good whisky for newcomers?
While its bold peatiness and high ABV may be most appreciated by experienced Scotch drinkers, Celestial’s layers of fruit and spice offer an accessible entry point for those looking to explore smoky, complex blends.
