Scotch whiskymaker Compass Box has revealed its second annual limited release of Hedonism, designed by Argentinian artist Sofia Bonati.
Hedonism, first introduced in 2000, has been credited for ‘reinventing’ the grain whisky category.
After discontinuing its core expression in late 2023, Hedonism became a limited edition annual release in 2024, marking a new chapter for Compass Box’s flagship whisky.
The first annual release was adorned with artwork by Scottish artist Stephanie Rew, who used traditional early Renaissance gilding techniques combined with a contemporary painting style.
With the second release, the whiskymaker continues the tradition of collaborating with different female artists to reimagine the original Hedonism woman.
The label for the 2025 release was created in partnership with Bonati and features nature-inspired vivid colours, intricate patterns and details.
Michael Stephenson, assistant whiskymaker at Compass Box, said: “The way that Sofia has captured the essence of the original Hedonism woman in her own style is incredible.
“She represented the unique elements of this edition’s recipe and taste profile through colour that really draws the eye. I can’t wait to see this out in the world and for people to taste it.”
The blended grain whisky features a single grain whisky from the Cameronbridge Distillery, which was finished for two years in a first-fill Marsala barrique.
The resulting whisky displays notes of caramel, peach purée, cocoa, pear, chocolate mousse and nutmeg custard with white grapes, Fuji apple and vanilla on the finish.
Hedonism 2025 is said to pair well with parmesan, Pastel de Nata, dried fruit such as apricots, or salted caramel pots de crème.
The 2025 release is limited to 9,912 bottles offered at 46% ABV with an RRP of £85 (US$107).
James Saxon, whisky making director for Compass Box, commented on the new release: “One of the exciting things about Hedonism becoming a limited annual release is that we not only get to collaborate with a different artist each year to put a new stamp on the label, but it also gives us the opportunity to explore a twist on the whisky itself.
“The 2025 release is unmistakably Hedonism in style and texture, but with the addition of one ex-Marsala barrique and some casks of previous batches, we push the flavours into new territories.”
Last September, Compass Box reshaped its core line with two new expressions, following the departure of founder John Glaser in early 2024.
Last month, the company announced the retirement of chairman Dr Alan Rutherford OBE on 31 March 2025, with Brockmans Gin founder Neil Everitt due to take over the role.
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Author: Miona Madsen
