Challenge

Launching the new core range of Compass Box whiskies—Nectarosity, Peat Monster, Crimson Casks, and Orchard House—required an approach that cut through the conventions of 'big whisky.' The category has long been burdened by homogenised language, tired visual cues, and rigid traditions. ‘Death to Bored’ was the brief: a challenge to the mundane and expected, a redefinition of what whisky could be.

Our goal: To create a range of 4 bartender-friendly serves (each with more accessible variants for at-home enthusiasts) that brought whisky into fresh, unexpected contexts—breaking away from the serious, sip-only stereotype.

Solution

We designed cocktails that reimagined whisky’s place in the drinking experience. The serves became a statement: whisky doesn’t have to be neat and solemn; it can be vibrant, surprising, and effortlessly modern. Each cocktail was crafted to be both aspirational and accessible, proving that whisky’s potential extends far beyond tradition.

Our serves included:

• A light, bright, picnic Old Fashioned, swapping out the heavy, wintery feel for something fresh and alfresco-ready.

• A dinner party toast, elevating whisky into a celebratory, sociable moment.

• And our personal favourite—the Freezer Martini, a perfectly chilled, minimalist serve that redefined how whisky can be enjoyed (lead image).

Full recipe: The Peat Monster Freezer Martini

40g Peat Monster

10g Dry Vermouth

5g Lager

5g Sugar Syrup (1:1)

15g Water

Method: Mix all ingredients and place in a bottle in the freezer until you’re ready to pour. To serve, pour a double shot into a frozen shot glass and pair with your favourite hoppy IPA