Mortlach The Katana's Edge Special Release 2023 Cask strength

In the 2023 Diageo Special Releases, artists were commissioned to create label artwork serving as “visual tasting notes,” aiming to express the flavours of each whisky through art. For Mortlach, which was finished in ex-Kanosuke and ex-Pinot Noir casks, Japanese illustrator Kouzou Sakia provided the label art. The whisky delivers Mortlach’s signature chewy, robust profile with notes of digestif biscuits, Monte Carlos, and hints of lamingtons. However, some felt the wine cask finish clashed with the distillate, which typically suits sherry maturation better, and the alcohol felt sharp without dilution. Bottled at 58% ABV.

Other reviews praised its muscular yet sweet complexity, highlighting aromas of cherry syrup, spices, and dried fruit, with flavours of vanilla, baked ham, chocolate, and peppermint oil. Whisky Advocate rated it 92 points.