Mars Komagatake Single Malt (2019 Edition) vs Balcones True Blue Cask Strength
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Mars Komagatake Single Malt (2019 Edition)
Shinshu
£130

Balcones True Blue Cask Strength
Balcones
★ 5.00
£102
| Mars Komagatake Single Malt (2019 Edition) | Balcones True Blue Cask Strength | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Shinshu | Balcones |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Japan | America |
| Type | Single Malt | Corn |
| ABV | 48% | 65.7% |
| Age | NAS | NAS |
| Price | £129.85 | £101.95 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Mars Komagatake Single Malt (2019 Edition)
Balcones True Blue Cask Strength
Mars Komagatake Single Malt (2019 Edition)
Balcones True Blue Cask Strength
Quick verdict
Balcones True Blue Cask Strength is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Balcones True Blue Cask Strength is better value at £102 vs £130.
For beginners: Mars Komagatake Single Malt (2019 Edition) is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).
Mars Komagatake Single Malt (2019 Edition)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −More expensive (£129.85 vs £101.95)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Balcones True Blue Cask Strength
Pros
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£101.95 vs £129.85)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (65.7%) — may need water
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Mars?
Mars Komagatake Single Malt (2019 Edition) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.
Who should buy Balcones?
Balcones True Blue Cask Strength is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Mars Komagatake Single Malt (2019 Edition)
Only Balcones True Blue Cask Strength