The Peat Monster is a blended malt created by the talented and renowned John Glaser, who is the mastermind behind Compass Box. Glaser is known for pushing the boundaries of whisky blending and creating unique and innovative expressions. He is highly respected in the whisky industry for his expertise and passion for creating exceptional whiskies.
One of the standout features of the Peat Monster is its peaty character. Glaser carefully selects malt whiskies from the legendary Isle of Islay, which is famous for its heavily peated whiskies. Islay whiskies are known for their distinctive smoky and peaty flavors, which are a result of the island's rich peat bogs. These whiskies are often described as having notes of bonfire smoke, seaweed, and medicinal qualities.
In addition to Islay malts, Glaser also includes a helping of Highland malt in the Peat Monster blend. Highland whiskies are known for their fruity and floral characteristics, which add complexity and balance to the smoky profile of this blend. The combination of Islay and Highland malts creates a whisky that is both richly smoky and nuanced, with layers of flavor to discover.
The Peat Monster is a testament to Glaser's skill in blending different whiskies together harmoniously. He carefully selects and balances the components to create a whisky that showcases the best qualities of each region. The result is a whisky that is not overly dominated by peat, but rather has a well-rounded and complex flavor profile.
I had the pleasure of trying the Peat Monster recently, and it truly lived up to its reputation. The nose was immediately filled with the unmistakable aroma of peat smoke, but there were also hints of ripe fruits and oak in the background. On the palate, the smokiness was well-balanced, with flavors of brine, earthiness, and a touch of sweetness from the fruit notes. The finish was long and lingering, with a gentle warmth that left me wanting more.
The Peat Monster is a fantastic blended malt whisky that showcases John Glaser's talent and creativity. It is a whisky that will appeal to both peat lovers and those looking for a well-balanced and complex whisky. Whether enjoyed neat or with a splash of water, the Peat Monster is sure to captivate and delight whisky enthusiasts.