Compass Box Hedonism 2026 Limited Release

LONDON, ENGLAND (February 24, 2026) – Compass Box has officially unveiled the third edition of its Hedonism Limited Annual Release, a 2026 expression that bridges the worlds of fine art and elite whiskymaking. This year’s release marks a historic milestone for the brand, featuring A-list actor and director Karen Gillan as the first-ever “known face” to serve as the Hedonism Muse.

The Art: A Living Portrait

To create the 2026 label, Compass Box commissioned globally acclaimed artist Emma Hack, famed for her immersive body art in Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know.” Hack transformed Gillan into a living canvas, using paint, gilding, and photography to reimagine the iconic female figure that has graced Hedonism bottles since 2000.

“Hedonism means to me the power, the beauty, the goddess, the strength within, and that’s what I really wanted to capture,” explains Hack. “Karen is perfect for the character of our Muse.”

Gillan, a Highland native and lifelong whisky enthusiast known for her roles in Guardians of the Galaxy and Jumanji, noted the personal significance of the collaboration.

“Sharing whisky and stories are some of the best times of my life,” says Gillan. “There’s no doubt that whiskymaking is an art form, and there’s no wilder sensation than seeing yourself on a whisky bottle!”

The Liquid: Old Grains & Rare Sherry

The 2026 edition, crafted by Creative Director of Whiskymaking Angela D’Orazio, is the most intense iteration of Hedonism to date. For the first time, the blend incorporates an old sherry component, adding a dark, dried-fruit complexity to the signature creamy grain profile.

The Components: Features a 30-year-old grain from Strathclyde, plus 20–24-year-old whiskies from Port Dundas and Cameronbridge.
Nose: Warm fruitcake, clove, dates, and toffee.
Palate: Thick and melting texture with notes of coffee, roasted almond, and cocoa-infused cream.

“The 2026 release is unmistakably Hedonism, but this year’s expression is richer, darker and more intense than previous editions,” says D’Orazio. “It is also the first time we have used an old sherry component in Hedonism, which brings a new flavor perspective to our original and most iconic whisky.”

Availability

The Hedonism 2026 Limited Annual Release is bottled at 46% ABV. It is limited to 13,218 bottles worldwide with a suggested retail price of $164.99.

Listen to Bourbon Lens on your favorite podcast app or stream on Spotify. If you’d like to support Bourbon Lens, join our Patreon, sign up for our “Weekly Pour” Newsletter, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.