Frequently Asked Questions
Discover Compass Box Vellichor Scotch Whisky, a rare limited edition blend that channels the nostalgic allure of vintage bookshops through masterful whisky craft. Meticulously composed from mature malts—including Highland Park, Macallan, and Caol Ila—and aged parcels finished in ex-Sherry butts, Vellichor delivers evocative aromas of leather, polished wood, and the dusty intrigue of old pages. The palate is a sumptuous medley of rich malt, tropical fruit, decadent Sherry, and refined peat, culminating in a long, complex finish. Bottled at 44.6% ABV, non-chill filtered and natural in color, only 3,246 bottles were released worldwide, making Vellichor a must-have for discerning whisky collectors and connoisseurs seeking a sensorial journey reminiscent of timeless libraries and storied blends.
Process & Profile
Vellichor is a meticulous blend brought to life by Compass Box’s lead whiskymaker, James Saxon. The creation began with a quest to recreate the fragrance and atmosphere of beloved old bookstores, leading to a partnership with a distiller in northern Scotland who provided rare casks of previously blended Scotch, further matured in ex-sherry butts. These sherry-matured whiskies were expertly combined with bold, mature malts from renowned distilleries, including Macallan, Highland Park, and Caol Ila.- Blend Composition:
Tasting Notes
Compass Box Vellichor delivers a multi-layered tasting journey reminiscent of the treasures found in a quiet, dust-laden library:- Nose: Hints of leather binding, polished antique wood, and the crackling dustiness of decades-old pages, overlaid with subtle floral and fruity undertones.
- Palate: A tapestry of sumptuous malty notes, tropical fruits, honey, and vanilla, laced with sherry character. Delicate but persistent peatiness emerges, joined by overripe orchard fruits, dark chocolate, white pepper, earth, and occasional notes of fig or raisin.
- Finish: Long, nuanced, and contemplative, inviting you back for another thoughtful sip.
What Makes It Special
- A Tribute to Storytelling: Inspired by the emotional pull of old books, Vellichor is a whisky that tells a story through aroma and flavor, evoking the nostalgia of literary adventures.
- Rare Ingredients: Incorporates aged, sherry-matured whiskies and prestigious single malts from Macallan and Highland Park, with a touch of smoky complexity from Caol Ila.
- Artisanal Craft: Each bottle is non-chill filtered, with natural color, ensuring the whisky’s purity and depth remain unaltered.
- Limited Release: Only 3,246 bottles were produced, making Vellichor a coveted collector’s item as well as a connoisseur’s delight.
- Awarded and Revered: Praised by whisky reviewers for its complexity and unique flavor profile—described as one of the finest Compass Box releases in recent years.
How to Enjoy
- Neat: Savor Vellichor neat to experience its full spectrum of aromas—let it open up slowly in the glass, much like the unfolding of a well-loved novel.
- With a Splash of Water: Add a drop or two of water to unlock hidden notes of fruit and spice, enhancing the whisky’s gentle peatiness and malty foundation.
- Paired with Reading: Take the advice of the late whisky writer Michael Jackson and enjoy Vellichor with a book at bedtime—it's a dram designed to evoke reflection and relaxation.
- Special Occasions: Due to its rarity and complexity, Vellichor is perfect for thoughtful sipping, moments of contemplation, or sharing among discerning whisky friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Compass Box Vellichor Scotch Whisky?
Compass Box Vellichor is a limited-edition blended Scotch whisky inspired by the evocative scent and atmosphere of second-hand bookshops. Its name, "Vellichor," refers directly to this unique and nostalgic aroma.
How was Vellichor created?
Vellichor was made by combining complex and mature whiskies from well-known distilleries—including Highland Park, Macallan, and Caol Ila—with parcels of previously blended whiskies that were further matured in ex-Sherry butts. The blending process was compared to searching for specific volumes in second-hand bookshops, focusing on stories and history in each cask.
What does Compass Box Vellichor taste and smell like?
On the nose, Vellichor carries hints of leather, polished furniture, and the dusty aroma of old books. The palate offers sumptuous malty notes, tropical fruit, Sherry character, and a delicate but persistent peatiness.
What is the ABV of Vellichor?
Compass Box Vellichor is bottled at 44.6% ABV (alcohol by volume).
Does Vellichor use artificial coloring or chill-filtration?
No, Vellichor is bottled at its natural color and is not chill-filtered, preserving the whisky’s full flavor and texture.
Is Vellichor a limited release?
Yes, Vellichor was released as a limited edition with only 3,246 bottles produced.
Which distilleries are represented in the blend?
The blend includes significant contributions from Highland Park (38.9%), Macallan (12.1%), and Caol Ila (4.1%), alongside mature blended parcels aged in Sherry butts.
What is the best way to enjoy Vellichor?
Vellichor is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to unlock its depth of flavors. It is designed to be savored during contemplative moments—perhaps with a good book, as the late whisky writer Michael Jackson recommended.
What flavor notes can I expect in Vellichor?
Expect notes of honey, vanilla, tropical fruit, Sherry, leather, oak, subtle spice, and a gentle peat smoke. The finish is smooth, balanced, and long-lasting.
Will my bottle come in original packaging?
Bottles are often shipped with decorative packaging, but packaging may vary depending on the retailer or batch. Always check with the retailer if specific packaging is required.
Can I return Vellichor if I am unsatisfied or the bottle is damaged?
Returns policies vary by retailer. Most will only accept returns if the product arrives damaged or spoiled. Always inspect your order on arrival and review the store’s specific return policy before purchasing.
How should Compass Box Vellichor be stored?
Store Vellichor upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, as you would with any premium whisky, to preserve its quality.
Is Vellichor suitable for whisky collectors?
Absolutely. Given its limited release, unique inspiration, and the inclusion of mature, high-quality casks, Vellichor is sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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