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Compass Box Founder John Glaser Steps Down
After 23 years, Compass Box founder and chief whisky maker John Glaser is leaving the London-based company. His resignation comes two years after Caelum Capital took majority ownership of Compass Box, which has become known for its eclectic collection of blended Scotch whiskies.
“What I can say now is that is has been an incredible 23-year journey. And now it’s time to step away,” Glaser said in an email. “It’s not been an easy decision, but it’s the right time. It’s time to pass on the reins to the new management and explore other opportunities.” Glaser will continue to own a minority stake in the company, and deferred an interview request for the time being.
Glaser launched Compass Box in 2000 after leaving Diageo, and the company quickly became known for its quirky, yet excellent whiskies led by the original Compass Box release, the Hedonism blended grain whisky. Glaser will be succeeded as chief whisky maker by his apprentice, James Saxon.
“I have a great deal of confidence in James Saxon and I know he will continue to impress the world with the whiskies Compass Box releases,” Glaser said in his email.
For more on John Glaser’s history, watch our two-part WhiskyCast interview from 2018.
Links: Compass Box
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