Mortlach The Katana's Edge (Special Release 2023) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Artists were commissioned to create artwork for each of the Diageo Special Releases in 2023, the labels aspiring to be “visual tasting notes, placing the expression at the centre of the experience and exploring the flavours that emerge from the local spirit casks.” In the example of Mortlach, it was finished in ex-Kanosuke casks (and x-Pinot Noir casks) with artwork by Japanese illustrator, Kouzou Sakia. A typically chewy, brawny Mortlach sporting flavours of digestif biscuits, Monte Carlos and hints of lamingtons, like several others in this series, the alcohol is a little piercing without water. Keeping in mind that our sample was just 20ml, the overall impression was that the wine maturation doesn't really complement the distillate, which usually works best from sherry casks. 58% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... This is a proper Mortlach, with plenty of muscle behind the beautiful sweet fruity complexity. Fragrant spices, cherry syrup, Red Vines, jellied fruit, ripe melon, hard candies, and dried pear aromas. Flavors of sweet vanilla, savory baked ham, baked apple, citrus peel, layers of spice, dried fruits, creamy fondant, milk chocolate, and peppermint oil. The finish gives you a warm glow down to your toes. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com