Mars Komagatake Limited Edition 2023 vs Yamazaki 12 Year Old

A side-by-side look at two Japanese whiskies to help you decide which one fits your palate and budget.

At a Glance

Category
Mars Single Malt
Yamazaki Single Malt
ABV
Mars 48%
Yamazaki 43%
Age Statement
Mars NAS
Yamazaki 12 years
Price Tier
Mars $100 – $250
Yamazaki $100 – $250
Distillery
Mars Mars Shinshu (Komagatake) Distillery
Yamazaki Yamazaki Distillery
JSLMA Compliant
Mars Yes
Yamazaki Yes

Tasting Notes

Nose
Mars Komagatake Limited Edition 2023

Fresh apple, pear, honey, floral notes

Yamazaki 12 Year Old

Fruity pineapple, peach and grapefruit paired with cloves, candied orange, vanilla and oak.

Palate
Mars Komagatake Limited Edition 2023

Soft and rounded with orchard fruits, light caramel, vanilla, gentle spice

Yamazaki 12 Year Old

Notes of coconut, butter and cranberries with a smooth, rounded mouthfeel. Hints of Mizunara oak sandalwood.

Finish
Mars Komagatake Limited Edition 2023

Medium length with clean fruit and oak

Yamazaki 12 Year Old

Long lasting with sweet ginger and cinnamon, fading into gentle oak.

Key Differences

  • Mars Komagatake Limited Edition 2023 comes in stronger at 48% ABV compared to Yamazaki 12 Year Old's 43%.
  • Yamazaki 12 Year Old has a 12 year age statement, while Mars Komagatake Limited Edition 2023 is a no-age-statement (NAS) release.
  • They come from different distilleries: Mars Shinshu (Komagatake) Distillery and Yamazaki Distillery.

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