Alphabet Dram – Caskstrength Creative Release a Limited Edition Blended Whisky

Caskstrength Cutty Sark with bag and paper

Master of Malt is continuing our education with the release of a limited edition blended whisky from drinks writers Joel Harrison and Neil Ridley: Caskstrength and Carry On Cutty Sark.

The third instalment in the growing alphabet range of spirits is also the first blend in the collection. This limited edition bottling is available exclusively through Master of Malt.

Their successful ‘A’ and ‘B’ releases in the Caskstrength A-Z of Whisky (single malt Scotch whiskies from the Isle of Arran and BenRiach distillery, respectively), Neil and Joel chose to partner with the world famous brand Cutty Sark to try their hand at creating a blend.

With guidance from Master Blender Kirsteen Campbell, they have produced a distinctive whisky to coincide with the 90th anniversary of Cutty Sark, which was launched on the 23rd of March, 1923.

Each of the 500 bottles has been hand-signed by Neil Ridley, Joel Harrison and Kirsteen Campbell.

The first 100 purchases of Caskstrength and Carry On Cutty Sark Blended Scotch Whisky include an accompanying “Cask Strength and Carry On” cotton bag which has been specially printed for this release.
Also included in the first hundred bottles is an edition of “The Daily Cargo”, a collectible newspaper which includes articles from industry experts as well as photographs, cocktail recipes, and a glimpse into the creative and wacky minds of Neil Ridley and Joel Harrison themselves.

Tasting Notes for: Caskstrength and Carry On (Cutty Sark) – 51.40% – £34.95

Nose: Creaminess and light butter supplement golden raisins and flower stems. Some hints of citrus.

Palate: Warming pepper comes to the fore; a result of the high abv. Pepper subsides quickly to reveal Demerara sugar and an unmistakable Lemon Meringue Pie. Just a whisper of smoke.

Finish: Pleasant and more-ish. More smoke becomes apparent but doesn’t dilute the lemon, cream, or sugar. This is an easy dram for such strength.

Overall: The drinkability belies the strength! Easy to sip neat but also stands up to water and cocktails. Versatile and utterly approachable.