Mortlach THE KATANA’S EDGE Special Release 2023 Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky ABV 58% 700ml

A malt of stunning impact; a rogue flash of umami cuts through the savoury sweetness.

Finished in a combination of ex-Kanosuke Japanese Whisky and ex-Pinot Noir Casks.

A moonlit glint of sleek steel flashes, a stunning presence in the sweet calmness of the night. Swiftly the katana, a sword crafted with complexity and precision, pierces the depths of darkness, revealing the bold mysteries of the midnight hour. Wielded with astonishing skill, it shines as a symbol of elegance and craftsmanship.

Mortlach is famed for its sweet yet savoury taste, defiantly rare among Speyside malts. Moved by this contrasting spark of umami, our Malt Master drew inspiration from the flavours of Japan, and finished part of this stunning expression in ex-Kanosuke Japanese Whisky casks. To add balance to the sweetness, ex-pinot noir casks were used to finish the remaining part of the whisky, in a combination of the utmost precision.

A striking golden gleam introduces sweet, alluring aromas of ripe melon and pear. On the palate, drily spiced savoury flavours cut through a scintillating sweetness. These contrasting notes entwine, to create a brilliant umami-rich depth of taste that lingers in the long, enticing and spicy finish. The result is a sweet-savoury intensity as deep and complex as the mark of the mighty katana.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Mild and fresh overall, with fruity top notes of ripe melon and pear that suggest boiled sweets dusted with icing sugar, then fruit pastilles and jellies. Savoury hints of leather and spice underpin the fruit. A drop of water dries the effect yet retains the overall fruitiness while introducing notes of almond and pencil shavings.

Palate

Rich, thick and smoothly mouth-filling in texture, with a deep, fruity and rich taste that is at once sweet and gently savoury. Lively throughout, it has an appealing dry spiciness. A dash of water softens it and brings up the sweet fruity note, which is now richer still.

Finish

Long, dry, spicy and warm of heart, with a lingering sweet-savoury intensity and a fruity aftertaste that is lightly mouth-cooling. More savoury character emerges if a drop of water is added.

PRODUCT SUMMARY