Compass Box has unveiled Karen Gillan, known for her roles in Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers, Jumanji and Doctor Who, as The Muse for the latest limited-edition release of its Hedonism blended grain Scotch whisky.

Compass Box Hedonism 2026 (46% ABV) features artwork of the Scottish actor in the role of The Muse, created by renowned artist Emma Hack. This collaboration is said to unite Scottish heritage with contemporary female creativity and promises to produce one of whisky’s most iconic bottles.

Hedonism first made history in 2000 as the first Scotch whisky to feature a woman at the centre of its label. This bold creative decision evolved further in 2023, when Hedonism became a limited annual release, with the Scotch whiskymaker collaborating each year with a different female artist to reimagine the original Hedonism woman from their own perspective. This tradition continues with Karen Gillan.

First released in 2000, Hedonism represented a revolutionary moment in whisky: the world’s first blended grain Scotch. Lauded for its silky texture, layered sweetness, and remarkable complexity, it transformed perceptions of grain whisky. As Hedonism gained global prominence, the rare and mature grain whiskies defining its character became increasingly scarce. In 2023, Compass Box reinvented Hedonism as a limited annual release, each edition advancing the conversation around grain whisky.

Compass Box Hedonism 2026 features some of the oldest components ever used in the release, including a 30-year-old from Strathclyde Distillery. The recipe also incorporates whiskies aged 20 to 24 years from Port Dundas and Cameronbridge Distillery, alongside historic blended grain parcels. A new sherry component introduces notes of cherry and raisin. The nose is warm, rich, and inviting, with clove-spiced fruitcake, dates, and toffee. The palate is complex, evoking coffee and cocoa-infused cream, while the finish melts softly and lingers.

Commenting on the launch, Angela D’Orazio, Compass Box Creative Director of Whiskymaking, said: “The 2026 release is unmistakably Hedonism, but this year’s expression is richer, darker, and more intense than previous editions. It also marks the first time we have used an old sherry component, bringing a fresh flavour dimension to our original and most iconic whisky. Working with Emma and Karen to bring the label to life was a fantastic experience – seeing different forms of artistry blend together, mirroring our whiskymaking process. Karen as our Muse truly embodies the Hedonism woman brought to life.”

Karen Gillan, added: “To be considered a muse for this whisky and to be part of its story is deeply personal to me. Sharing whisky and stories are some of the best times of my life. There’s no wilder sensation than seeing yourself on a whisky bottle.”

Limited to 13,126 bottles, Hedonism 2026 will be available for pre-order exclusively at masterofmalt.com from February 24th, before going on general release from March 1st, for a RRP of £90.00.