Mars whisky
Located between Japan’s soaring Southern Alps and the towering Central Alps, at just over 2,600 feet, Mars Shinshu is Japan’s highest whisky distillery. The Hombo family have been distilling for more than a century and added whisky to their repertoire in 1949. At that time the distillery was located in the Tsunuki region of Kagoshima Prefecture on the southern-most island of Kyushu.
Until 1984, it was the southernmost whisky made in Japan, which ended when the Hombo clan moved the distillery to the idyllic alpine setting of Miyada village in southern Nagano Prefecture, Central Japan. They chose this site for its cool temperature, which slowed maturation, and the plentiful soft granite filtered snowmelt fed aquifers. A beautiful choice.
In 2016, Hombo Shuzo reopened and introduced new pot stills to their first distillery location in Kagoshima now known as the Mars Tsunuki Distillery, once again Japan’s southernmost distillery.They also built an aging facility on a tiny island known as Yakushima, a National World Heritage site, where they now age spirits from both Shinshu and Tsunuki distilleries.
PRODUCTS
iwai whisky 40.0% ABV
(PRONOUNCED “E-Y”)
Kiichiro Iwai (pronounced "E-Y") is the namesake of this flagship blended whisky from Mars. Distilled in Nagano at their Komagatake distillery, this blend takes its inspiration from the great whiskies of the United States. Iwai Whisky is blended primarily from grain with the complexity of malted barley being the supporting component. Matured entirely in ex-bourbon barrels, Iwai Whisky is at once approachable and robust without sacrificing flavor. This is a blend that will surely serve as the perfect introduction to the wide world of modern Japanese Whisky and create fans of Mars for years to come.
tasting notes
Lean & slightly sweet with notes of pear, quince and hints of red fruits & vanilla
iwai tradition 40.0% ABV
Kiichiro Iwai (pronounced "E-Y") is the namesake of this blended whisky from Mars. Malt driven and complex, Iwai Tradition is truly a reflection of contemporary Japanese Whisky expressions. Made primarily of malted barley with a bit of added richness from grain, this whisky is matured in a medley of ex-bourbon, sherry, and red wine barrels. To provide a little added depth, a touch of peated malt is used. The result is a harmonious blended whisky full of toffee, vanilla, dark chocolate, and black tea that would make Iwai san proud.
tasting notes
Ripe Cherry, Honey Toffee with a Beautiful Ginger Spice.
iwai 45 45.0% ABV
(PRONOUNCED “E-Y”)
Kiichiro Iwai (pronounced "E-Y") is the silent pioneer of Japanese Whisky and the namesake of this modern blend from Mars. Distilled in Nagano at their Komagatake Distillery, Iwai 45 is a higher proof version of the classic Iwai Whisky. Predominantly made from grain with some supporting malt, this version was made specifically with application to the modern cocktail in mina. Iwai 45 will stand up to and support virtually any ingredient it is paired with. Full of texture and balance, Iwai 45 is crafted for the international bartender.
BARRELS: BOURBON
tasting notes
Sharp with fruit flavors like pear, quince and hints of red fruits and vanilla.
iwai 45 1.8L 45.0% ABV
(PRONOUNCED “E-Y”)
Kiichiro Iwai (pronounced "E-Y") is the silent pioneer of Japanese Whisky and the namesake of this modern blend from Mars. Distilled in Nagano at their Komagatake Distillery, Iwai 45 is a higher proof version of the classic Iwai Whisky. Predominantly made from grain with some supporting malt, this version was made specifically with application to the modern cocktail in mina. Iwai 45 will stand up to and support virtually any ingredient it is paired with. Full of texture and balance, Iwai 45 is crafted for the international bartender.
BARRELS: BOURBON
tasting notes
Sharp with fruit flavors like pear, quince and hints of red fruits and vanilla.
IWAI TRADITION SHERRY CASK FINISH 40% ABV
A limited release, Chateau Mars produces both Cabernet and Pinot Noir. Some of those casks are then reused to finish their whisky.
tasting notes
A blended whiskey that is additionally aged (finished) by putting "Iwai Tradition" in an empty barrel used for the extremely sweet sherry "Pedro Jimenez". In addition to the rich flavor of Iwai Tradition, it is a gem with oxidized aromas of sherry and elegant sweetness of brown sugar and maple syrup derived from sherry casks in a well-balanced manner.
MARS THE Y.A. #01 52% ABV
This is the first edition of the new Y.A. series from Mars. 1740 bottles for the USA
Mars The Y.A. #01 is the first edition of whiskies showcasing the unique terroir of Yakushima Island where it is aged. Not to be confused with Mars’ Komagatake Yakushima Aging single Malt distilled at Shinshu, this is a whole new line of whiskies focused on the expressive flavors of salinity and tropical fruit that aging on Yakushima can yield. This first edition is a pure malt blend of whiskies from both the Shinshu and Tsunuki distilleries that are primarily aged in ex -bourbon barrels in the one-of-a-kind island conditions of Yakushima. This whisky is packed with the rich texture of banana cream and candied tropical fruits that yields to a long slightly smokey finish of sweet malty depth. If The Y.A #01 is an indicator of whiskies to come from Mars, the future is indeed bright.
malted barley
pure malt
copper straight head stills
aging nas
ex-bourbon bbl & sherry
peat 2ppm
Awards
2023 Gold: The San Francisco World Spirits Competition
MARS THE Y.A. #02 49% ABV
This is the second edition of the new Y.A. series from Mars.
Mars The Y.A. #2 is a continuation of the blended malt series from the distilleries Komagatake and Tsunuki. Whiskies from each distillery are married together and aged entirely on the island of Yakushima. Yakushima is a small world heritage site about 60 km off the southern coast of Kyushu, Japan that sports year-round rain, subtropical temperatures, and heavy humidity. The unique terroir of the island makes it a one-of-a-kind location to mature whisky. This second edition of Y.A. (Yakushima Aging), has a smokier profile than its predecessor making for a wonderfully complex dram that balances peat and fruit. Think grilled pears, black tea, and honey with sea salt and you are almost there. Mars The Y.A. #2 is a perfect evolution of this series that showcases the singular terroir of Yakushima.
700ml
pure malted blend
nas
4 - 6 years
peated
peat 15ppm
ex-bourbon & sherry barrels
in Komagatake in Nagano and Tsunuki in Kagoshima
KOMAGATAKE 2023 EDITION 50% ABV
With every passing year comes a new release from Mars Hombo’s flagship distillery in Nagano, Komagatake. Formerly known as Mars Shinshu, this distillery currently holds the title of “Japan’s Highest Whisky Distillery” and is iconic for its clean and delicate style of malt whisky. The Komagatake 2023 emphasizes the fruit forward aromas of banana, apricot, and dried plum which turns to the deeper, rich flavors on the palate. Hazelnut, maple candy, black tea, and oxidative sherry sweetness all make an appearance in this stellar new edition of Komagatake’s ever evolving malt whisky.
700ml
single malt
nas
3 - 5 years
peated lightly
peat 0 - 3.5 ppm
nagano distillery
EX BOURBON, SHERRY, PORT
KOMAGATAKE 2022 EDITION 50% ABV
The Komagatake Single Malt is Mars Shinshu’s continually evolving series of annual whiskies that showcase the depth generated in this Nagano based distillery. Each expression is completely independent of the expression that preceded it and the 2022 edition is no different. This year’s offering has the delicate aroma of grilled stone fruit with a rich flavor centering on honied prunes and hazelnuts. This nuanced offering from Mars Shinshu is a benchmark in their Komagatake line that will undoubtably turn the heads of fans, old and new.
The Komagatake 2022 release marks the change from a limited release to an annual edition with 9516 bottles allocated to the USA.
Awards
2023 Gold: The San Francisco World Spirits Competition
KOMAGATAKE 2021 EDITION 48% ABV
The label celebrates the opening of the reconstructed distilling site at Mars Shinshu distillery. The 2020 Komagatake was aged for over 3 years in sherry casks and American White Oak make barrels. Distiller’s tasting reveals prune, honey, and vanilla on the nose and sweet orange on the palate accompanied by developing cocoa powder. The finish is long, gentle, and sweet. A beautiful amber hue, this whisky is sure to delight.
The "2021 Edition" is a 2021 limited bottled single malt whiskey that is aged in bourbon barrels and sherry barrels.
Like previous editions this is an elegant whisky, the flagship of Mars Single Malts. Aromas of honey, and oranges zest with flavors of ripe persimmon and chestnut
MARS TSUNUKI SINGLE MALT 2024 50% ABV
Since opening in 2016, the Tsunuki Distillery has been garnering plenty of attention and snatching down awards for their incredible Japanese Single Malts. The Tsunuki 2024 is now the 5th main release coming from the distillery and continues to refine the deep, expressive flavor that they have become known for. This edition marks the first inclusion Virgin Spanish Oak casks as the primary maturation vessel. Supported by ex-bourbon barrels, as well as sherry casks, this latest edition yields beautifully complex aromatics of strawberry jam, orange leather, and red bean pastry. Classic Tsunuki flavors of bitter chocolate, black tea, and pastry cream are complimented with fresh notes of blackberries and juicy oranges. The brilliant finish is full of bittersweet cocoa, camp smoke, and lemon peels.
700ml
single malt
nas
4 - 7 years
peated
6 - 7 ppm
kagoshima distillery
MAINLY VIRGIN SPANISH OAK WITH EX-BOURBON AND SHERRY CASKS
Mars Tsunuki Single Malt Edition 2023 50% ABV
Tsunuki is Mars Hombo’s second distillery, opened in 2016 in Kagoshima where the company can trace its origins. While the Komagatake Distillery in Nagano focuses on a delicate “clean” style of whisky, Tsunuki creates whiskies that are bass-y and rich with a greater emphasis on smoke. The climate is humid and subtropical at Tsunuki, which is quite literally the polar opposite of Komagatake in Nagano. Think low elevation and hot vs high elevation and cool. Kagoshima’s unique climate creates an environment uniquely suited to extracting flavor from barrels as a whisky matures. This edition sees maturation in a combination of ex bourbon, as well as sherry casks, that build layers of thick, nuanced flavor. Pastry cream, pancakes, lemon peels and a kiss of smokey malt all exist harmoniously in this wonderful fourth release from the Tsunuki Distillery.
700ml
single malt
nas
3+ years
peated
5 - 6 ppm
kagoshima distillery
EX BOURBON, SHERRY barrels
Mars Tsunuki Single Malt Edition 2022 50% ABV
Single Malt Whisky made in Tsunuki, the birthplace of Hombo Shuzo. Rich and Energetic style. Mars Tsunuki Distillery was launched in 2016 in a small area enclosed by mountains. Here, the company first began producing spirits in 1909, and production has continued for over a hundred years. Mt. Kurata spring water flows here, making up the body of our spirits, and the warm regional climate deepens the flavors of our whiskies. Please enjoy our meticulously made single malt from southern Japan.
tasting notes
Nose: Lemon cake, black tea and a whiff of smoke. Deep sweet aroma like cacao, sweetened bean paste, butter toast and milk candy follows over time. Very complex aroma.
Palate: Bitterness and fruitiness like orangette spreads.
Finish: Long and warming sweetness lingers.
SPECIAL NOTE: 2040 Bottle US Release
Awards
2023 Double Gold: The San Francisco World Spirits Competition
2023 Best In Class Japanese Whisky: The San Francisco World Spirits Competition
limited release
bakemono series
The Bakemono Series will be an ongoing collection of twenty-two single barrel and double barrel (The Y.A.) releases from both of Mars Hombo’s distilleries. The images were taken from the Bakemono Zukushi scroll created by an unknown artist, dated to the 18th or 19th century Japan depicting various yokai from local folk lore. Each release’s label will be adorned with a different yokai or spirit from the scroll and will be packaged in a beautiful wooden box. Being cask strength single barrels, these releases will be incredibly limited in number so happy ghost hunting!
KOMAGATAKE 1ST “OYASHIROME” SINGLE CASK 64% ABV
The Bakemono Zukushi, or “Monster Scroll” can be traced to Japan’s Edo period in the 18th or 19th century. The scroll depicts an array of Japanese yokai (spirits) who are taken from their local folk lore. The first edition of this series features a single cask from the Komagatake Distillery in Nagano, depicting the creature Oyashirome.
cask strength
700ml
single malt
age statement yes
7 yrs 7 months
avg ppms N/A
EX BOURBON SINGLE BARREL
nagano distillery
special notes
FIRST INSTALLMENT OF THE SINGLE BARREL SERIES EXCLUSIVE TO THE U.S.
TSUNUKI 2ND “DAICHIUCHI” SINGLE CASK 61% ABV
The Bakemono Zukushi, or “Monster Scroll” can be traced to Japan’s Edo period in the 18th or 19th century. The scroll depicts an array of Japanese yokai (spirits) who are taken from their local folk lore. The second edition of this series features a single cask from the Tsunuki Distillery depicting the creature Daichiuchi.
cask strength
700ml
single malt
age statement yes
4 yrs 2 months
peated
3.5 ppms
SINGLE EX-BOURBON BARREL
kagoshima distillery
THE Y.A. 3RD “DÓMO-KÓMO” DOUBLE CASK 51% ABV
The Bakemono Zukushi, or “Monster Scroll” can be traced to Japan’s Edo period in the 18th or 19th century. The scroll depicts an array of Japanese yokai (spirits) who are taken from their local folk lore. The third edition of this series features pure malt release from two single ex-bourbon barrels; one from the Tsunuki Distillery and one from the Komagatake Distillery, both aged on the island of Yakushima. The two headed yokai Dómo-Kómo adorns the label of this special release, selected specifically for the U.S.
cask strength
700ml
pure malt blend
age statement yes
3.5 ppms
tsunuki 4+ yrs aged
KOMAGATAKE 5+ yrs aged
nagano distillery
kagoshima distillery
TWO SINGLE EX-BOURBON BARRELS
iwai tradition "haru" 40.0% ABV
sakura cask
(PRONOUNCED “E-Y”)
Our classic Iwai Tradition finished in a Japanese cherry wood casks.
More square or rectangular in nature than round, given the difficulty of classic coopering of the wood, from Japan’s famed Cooperage Ariake.
A uniquely Japanese offering with deep cultural roots. The sakura blossom is the symbol of spring and new life in Japan.
tasting notes
On the nose notes of autumn spice, straw, dried apricot with gentle white floral aromas underlying, on the palate, soft almost brandy like from the impact of the cherry wood, cotton candy and ripe red berries on the finish
Iwai Tradition “Natsu” 40.0% ABV
Umeshu / Plum Wine Cask Finished
(PRONOUNCED “E-Y”)
Our classic Iwai Tradition finished in umeshu / Japanese plum wine casks for 6+ months.
Sweet & refreshing, Umeshu is truly the summer time drink of Japan. Umeshu is occasionally barrel aged to give this cordial a bit more depth & character, leaving behind a uniquely Japanese seasoned cask.
tasting notes
On the nose notes of autumn spice, straw, dried apricot with gentle white floral aromas underlying, on the palate, soft almost brandy like from the impact of the cherry wood, cotton candy and ripe red berries on the finish
IWAI TRADITION "AKI" 40.0% ABV
AUTUMN WINE CASK FINISH
Mars Shinshu's popular lwai Tradition release finished in Cabernet Sauvignon casks sourced from an undisclosed yet very famous winery located in Napa Valley, California. This annual wine cask finished release is the only to use American wine casks which imparts a deeper ruby hue and sweetness to the whisky when compared both to its Japanese and French wine cask finish counterparts.
BARRELS: Ex-Bourbon, Sherry & American White Oak - Finished in an Ex-Napa Cabernet Sauvignon
tasting notes
Aromas of dried cherry followed by slightly toastedflavorsofvanilla&blackpepper. Delicious Napa Cabernet Sauvignon notes linger in the finish.
IWAI TRADITION "FUYU" 40.0% ABV
chestnut cask
Fuyu means winter in Japanese, a time when roasted chestnuts are a popular snack for all. This special winter release I the classic Iwai Tradition finished for 4 months in Japanese chestnut casks. These casks add a subtle sweetness & pleasant bitterness to this inherently rich & malty whisky.
tasting notes
Brown sugar, maple syrup and toasty aromas on the nose, gentle tannin works well to bring up the sharpness in body. Finish is elegant and long with cacao from the port wine cask.
MALT DUO MARS 54% ABV
THE SIX YEAR SECRET UNVEILED
Venture Whisky and Hombo Shuzo have announced that they are releasing new bottles of malt whisky: Double Distilleries 2021 from Venture Whisky and Malt Duo 2021 from Hombo Shuzo. The new bottles are the result of a collaboration between the two distilleries in terms of a whisky exchange. The companies initiated the joint project in 2015 and started by exchanging new-make whisky. The distilleries then stored the spirits they received in casks in their warehouses.
They spent almost six years aging the whisky, watching the progress closely and reporting to each other on how the whisky was developing. Getting reports on the maturation status from the other distillery was like “hearing about my children growing up in a different city,” said Mr. Kunai, the director and blender of Mars Whisky.
Both Venture Whisky and Hombo Shuzo believe that the experiment had led to new dimensions that were brought by the different malts. They hope that whisky fans around the world will enjoy their new products and that more people will enjoy a variety of Japanese whisky in the future.
tasting notes
On the nose a touch of citrus, green plum and brown sugar one the palate cocoa, vanilla with a hint of tobacco. A lingering finish with a soft mouth feel on whisky that is over 100 proof.
mars 'hoken' 30 yr brandy 58.0% ABV
Hombo Shuzo produces spirits and wine under the brand name Mars.
Mars Winery is in Yamanashi, the heart of Japanese wine production, and it is where ‘Hoken’ was made, from the grapes harvested there. The grape variety is the “Delaware”, it is a grape native to Japan. Delaware is also an edible grape. This makes it juicy and surprisingly fruity when made into wine. The wine was distilled in the Shinshu Distillery in 1987 and aged there for over thirty years. Brandy from five casks was blended and bottled with minimum filtration, to preserve its elegant complexity. The name Hoken is the name of one of the major peaks of the Central Alps in Nagano. The nose offers apricot and dried fruits, with a hint of white pepper and nutmeg. The palate is elegant with raisin, cinnamon, and almond. The finish is long and pleasant, with some spicy notes.
grape details
As mentioned above, Delaware grapes is from Yamanashi Prefecture. Yamanashi is the most famous area for growing wine grapes in Japan. It is environment with warm summers and cold winters, with a big difference in temperature throughout the year. Grapes are grown by method of pergola (not guyot) tailoring. The ripe Delaware from Yamanashi was used to ferment a fruity aromatic wine for brandy.
MARS MALTAGE COSMO MANZANILLA 2022 42% ABV
The Cosmo series from Mars Hombo is a line of pure malt vatted whiskies using single malt from their Nagano distillery Komagatake that is blended with whisky from an undisclosed distillery in Scotland. This latest Manzanilla edition highlights the complexity of Japanese blending, utilizing the casks of dry manzanilla sherry to add salinic complexity to the whisky. The soft richness of dried fruit intermingles with maple candy and brown sugar, yielding to an almost bittersweet finish reminiscent of dark chocolate covered coconut.
700 ml
42% ABV
pure malt
aging nas
peated lightly
ex-bourbon, virgin oak, manzanilla cask
Awards
2023 Silver: The San Francisco World Spirits Competition
COSMO WINE CASK FINISHED 2020 43% ABV
Mars classic Japan only COSMO release finished in cabernet & pinot casks from the chateau Mars winery in the prestigious Yamanashi wine growing region of Japan.
tasting notes
Notes of spice & fruit on the nose followed by a classic soft & rounded Mars mouthfeel. Gentle lingering tannins with hints of dried fruit & black tea.
komagatake yakushima aging 2021 56% ABV
This is the 4th Yakushima Aging release. It made it through the long journey from Shinshu in the Japanese Alps to the southern tropical island of Yakushima. Surrounded by the beautiful nature of Yakushima Island including cedar forests, rivers and sea the whisky developed unique flavor profiles through its 3 ~ 5 year maturation.
tasting notes
Nose: Yellow fruits, white smoke, dried fruits, tobacco, butter.
Palate: Soft attack, milk chocolate, dashi, dried bonito, licorice, refreshing to the end.
Finish: Pleasant bitterness lingers.
Mars The Lucky Cat Double Individuals May & Luna 52% ABV
This 8th edition of The Lucky Cat series features for the first time two of the distillery’s beloved cats. May, the eldest cat, featured on the 4th edition bottle seems to nurture a one-sided hatred of Luna, the youngest cat who was featured on the 7th edition bottle. As is true for aging whisky, the passing of time tends to smooth rough edges and their relationship has improved as a result. With any luck, May and Luna will someday exist as harmoniously as the flavors of cherry mochi, vanilla, and peat smoke that grace this special dram.
43% ABV
700 ml
NAS
peated
blended whisky
sakura cask along side a variety of others
special notes
The 8th Edition of The Lucky Cat Series and the first to feature two cats.
MARS TSUNUKI PEATED 50.0% ABV
This second single malt release from the newly reopened Mars Tsunuki Distillery brings forward a subtle peatiness that was hidden in The First. Water from Mt. Kurata brings a soft & delicate yet heavy water to the distillery that is perfectly reflected in the mouthfeel.
tasting notes
Hints of peated honey on the nose are followed by crisp green apple, fresh mint & buttered banana on the palate. A sweet & smokey yellow fruit notes linger long after.
MARS THE LUCKY CAT 'CHOCO' 40.0% ABV
The cat named ‘Choco’ came into Mr Hombo’s family in April 2017 with Hana, Choco’s sister. Choco’s personality is much more outgoing than Hana. This whisky has been finished in Port wine casks. So the whisky has a bit of sweetness and fruit while offering some complexity to the dram.
tasting notes
Brown sugar, maple syrup and toasty aromas on the nose, gentle tannin works well to bring up the sharpness in body. Finish is elegant and long with cacao from the port wine cask.
KOMAGATAKE IPA CASK FINISHED 2022 52% ABV
Mars Komagatake IPA Cask 2022 follows in the same fashion as its previously beloved releases. This single malt is distilled at Mars’ Nagano location Shinshu and is aged primarily in ex-bourbon barrels. The whisky is finished in IPA casks sourced from the nearby Minami Shinshu Brewery who specialize in sessionable craft ales. Waves of citrusy hopped flavors like grapefruit zest and bitter orange give this incredible malt a depth all its own.
700ml
single malt
malted barley
copper straight head stills
aging nas
ex-bourbon & ipa casks
peat 2ppm
KOMAGATAKE IPA CASK FINISHED 2021 52% ABV
Komagatake Single Malt Whisky Finished in IPA Casks is refreshing with a bitter taste derived from the IPA soaked ex-bourbon barrel. The beer casks (provided by Minami Shinshu Brewery) impart a unique flavor and mouthfeel to the whisky. This limited edtion finish is a testament to the creativity at Mars Whisky and their ambition to push the boundaries of craft whisky.
tasting notes
Nose: Refreshing citrus & herbaceous notes from the hops.
Palate: Maltiness with a clear sweetness of grapefruit and orange.
Finish: The crisp bitterness from the IPA cask is refreshing.
MARS KOMAGATAKE IPA CASK FINISH 2023 52% ABV
Mars Komagatake IPA Cask Finish 2023 follows finally makes its return with the new 2023 release. This single malt is a vatting of non and lightly peated whiskies between 3 to 4 years old matured in ex-bourbon barrels before finishing in ex-IPA casks for about 6 months. The IPA casks are used for a craft beer called Ogna supplied by Mars Hombo's brewery Minami Shinshu. The terpenes of the hoppy IPA gives this whisky a fantastically expressive nose full of fresh herbs, pineapple, and bitter citrus. The palate is an explosion of ruby red grapefruit peels, orange candy, pine, and pineapple cake that ends with a beautifully light smokey finish.
Malt whisky distilled & matured at Mars Shinshu Distillery then finished for 1 year in Minami Shinshu Ex-IPA casks.
tasting notes
Citrus fruit on nose, developing into vanilla. Sweet and malty on the citrusy palate. Sweet to bitter ending with beer edge.
KOMAGATAKE IPA CASK FINISHED 2020 52% ABV
Minami Shinshu Brewery crafts beer right next to our distillery, actively using locally sourced ingredients to make delicious brews. This time our experiment is introducing their used beer casks (India Pale Ale) to our whisky’s finish.
Malt whisky distilled & matured at Mars Shinshu Distillery then finished for 1 year in Minami Shinshu Ex-IPA casks.
tasting notes
Citrus fruit on nose, developing into vanilla. Sweet and malty on the citrusy palate. Sweet to bitter ending with beer edge.
iwai tradition wine cask finish 2021 40% ABV
Subdued aromas of raisin and apricots are integrated with the vanilla and toast of this classic whisky.
tasting notes
Notes of lilies on the nose with well-balanced hints of pear, honey & white pepper.
Asagi Madara 8 Year 48.0% ABV
In September 2020, Mars Shinshu Distillery was renovated and expanded 35 years post-establishment. This Japanese blended whisky, which is at least 8 years old, has refreshing notes reminiscent of the Shinshu forest and wildflowers. The butterfly Asagimadara (Parantica sita) on the label, known for migrating long distances, is seen in Miyada Village, where the distillery is located.
This malt and grain blend is 100% Japanese-made, with the malt spirit distilled at Mars Shinshu Distillery and the grain spirits sourced from a different local distillery before the Japanese whisky boom.
tasting notes
Notes of lilies on the nose with well-balanced hints of pear, honey & white pepper.
komagatake tsunuki aging 2020 54.0% ABV
New-make whisky distilled at Mars Shinshu Distillery was transported to their southern Mars Tsunuki Distillery in Kagoshima for aging. Made with Shinshu’s distilling equipment and aged in the warmer region, this whisky has developed a distinct expression.
tasting notes
It is citrusy with candied lemon peel and a hint of peat on the nose with a smooth slightly sweet palate. The finish is luscious with light hints of peat.
tsunuki the first 56.0% ABV
The first release from Tsunuki Distillery has finally arrived!The climate at the Tsunuki Distillery is drastically different being near sea level, experiencing higher humidity and fluctuating temperatures. The goal of the new distillery is to not necessarily increase production, but to experiment with terroir. This is the first ever Mars release that has been both distilled and aged entirely at sea level. This anticipated single malt is aged for 4 yrs in ex-bourbon and sherry barrels, boasting sweet fruits and gentle spices on the palate.
tasting notes
Fresh bread, citrus fruits, vanilla, pine nuts, cinnamon
komagatake 2020 single malt 50% ABV
The label celebrates the opening of the reconstructed distilling site at Mars Shinshu distillery. The 2020 Komagatake was aged for over 3 years in sherry casks and American White Oak make barrels. Distiller’s tasting reveals prune, honey, and vanilla on the nose and sweet orange on the palate accompanied by developing cocoa powder. The finish is long, gentle, and sweet. A beautiful amber hue, this whisky is sure to delight.
komagatake yakushima aging 2020 53% ABV
The Single Malt Komagatake Yakushima Aging series is distilled in at Mars Shinshu Distillery at the base of the Komagatake mountains, and then transported south to be aged in Yakushima, an island 60km off of the Kagoshima mainland. The key malt is the bourbon barrel aged along with a hint of sherry notes. Very lightly peated (about 6ppm). This whisky is diluted to 53% to get more fruitiness and juicy flavors. Orange and Lemonade like juicy and refreshing aroma. Little by little vanilla or custard cream comes out with a hint of peat. Very Juicy fruitiness. Juicy fruits lingers on the finish but completes the whisky well.
komagatake limited edition 2019 single malt 48% ABV
Mars Shinshu’s second step toward defining their house style single malt. Aged 4 ~ 6 years, this whisky consists of barrels aged on the top shelf of their rack house where maturity happens the fastest. The malt is lightly peated at 2.5 PPM. Soft & mellow are perfect descriptors of this beautiful single malt whisky.
tasting notes
Round & Clean with Notes of Persimmon, Apricot & Orange Marmalade
komagatake tsunuki aging 2019 56.0% ABV
A limited edition single malt distilled at the high altitude Mars Shinshu Distillery that is then aged at their southern Tsunuki Distillery in Kagoshima. Bottled at cask strength, this whisky experiments with the drastic climate differences between the two areas.
tasting notes
Toasted almonds, citrus, sweet apples, vanilla, whipped cream
mars the lucky cat 'luna' 40% ABV
Luna is the 6th edition of Mars Shinshu’s Lucky Cat series of blended whiskies. This whisky’s namesake is an affectionately energetic calico cat who, at just about a year old, runs circles around Choco, the cat who graced the last edition of this series. Luna is a blend of malt whisky distilled at Mars’ Nagano distillery and grain whisky that is aged primarily in manzanilla, along with oloroso sherry casks. The bittersweet character of sherry balances the lush tones of caramel, brown sugar, and cocoa that comprise this incredibly quaffable whisky.
This bottling is named after the new Hombo family calico cat, Luna. 990 bottles for the USA.
mars the lucky cat 'hana' 43.0% ABV
The 5th release in the popular Mars Lucky Cat Series "Hana" is a perfect blend of malt and grain spirits finished in top tier Oloroso Sherry casks. Hana which translates to "flower" is the name of the adorable cat on the label which happens to be the owners favorite.
tasting notes
Richly fruity with proper spice notes & a perfectly lush & elegant smoothness. Brown sugar hints on the finish.
COSMO MANZANILLA SHERRY CASK FINISH 42% ABV
A variation of the classic Mars COSMO that was a big hit when released at the 2015 Tokyo International Bar Show that has been finished in an ex-Manzanilla sherry cask.
tasting notes
An extremely soft & smooth mouthfeel with aromas of dry fruit, brown sugar and maple syrup from the Manzanilla cask. Chocolate & coconut on the palate with a slight bitterness.
komagatake - Single Cask #1447
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
AGE: 7 years
Komagatake YAKUSHIMA Aging 2019
Another playful expression in the evolution of Mars Whisky. First distilled at Japan’s highest elevation distillery, Mars Shinshu in Nagano, the distillate is then transferred to southern Japan’s Yakushima Island, a World Heritage Site known for 1000 year old cedar trees, untouched nature and rain 300+ days a year.
By pushing the boundaries of Japanese whisky production, Mars is widely becoming known as Japan’s most prolific craft whisky distillery.
tasting notes
Notes of honey & dried apricot on the nose evolving into even more honey and a peppery spice on the long, lingering finish.
ABV: 58.0%
SIZE: 750ml
STYLE: SINGLE MALT
BARRLES: SHERRY CASK
SPECIAL NOTE: 1140 Bottle Single Release
Komagatake DOUBLE CELLARS 2019
Another playful expression in the evolution of Mars Whisky. First distilled at Japan’s highest elevation distillery, Mars Shinshu in Nagano, with 50% of the distillate then transferred to the Mars Yakushima Island Aging Cellar off the coast of southern Japan. Yakushima Island is a World Heritage Site known for 1000 year old cedar trees, untouched nature and rain 300+ days a year. After 3 years of aging the whiskies are married again in Nagano to create this fascinating Double Distillery release.
By pushing the boundaries of Japanese whisky production, Mars is widely becoming known as Japan’s most prolific craft whisky distillery.
tasting notes
Apricot & bitter chocolate on the nose with hints of citrus, salt & spice on the palate. Finishes with sweet vanilla.
ABV: 47.0%
SIZE: 750ml
STYLE: SINGLE MALT
BARRLES: BOURBON, SHERRY CASK, AMERICAN WHITE OAK
SPECIAL NOTE: 3659 Bottle Single Release
Komagatake Tsunuki Aging 2018
A playful expression in the evolution of Mars Whisky. First distilled at Japan’s highest elevation distillery, Mars Shinshu in Nagano, the distillate is then transferred to the Mars Tsunuki Distillery in the southern prefecture of Kagoshima to be aged in their sea level rack house.
By pushing the boundaries of Japanese whisky production, Mars is widely becoming known as Japan’s most prolific craft whisky distillery.
tasting notes
Herbaceous with gorgeous soft vanilla pod notes
ABV: 57.0%
SIZE: 750ml
STYLE: SINGLE MALT
BARRLES: BOURBON
SPECIAL NOTE: 1462 Bottle Single Release
the lucky cat - may
TYPE: BLEND
ABV: 40.0%
NOTES: 4th in the series, finished in umeshu / Japanese plum wine casks
the lucky cat - MINT
TYPE: BLEND
ABV: 43.0%
NOTES: 3rd in the series, aged in bourbon, virgin oak and cognac casks
the lucky cat - ASH 99
TYPE: BLEND
ABV: 40.0%
NOTES: 2nd in the series, aged in bourbon and sherry casks
the lucky cat - SUN
TYPE: BLEND
ABV: 39.0%
BOTTLES RELEASED: 1200
NOTES: 1st in the series, aged in port wine and Madeira casks
Komagatake Limited Edition 2018
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
AGED: 3 to 6 years
ABV: 48.0%
BOTTLES RELEASED: 10,000
NOTES: 1st in the series, aged in port wine and Madeira casks
Komagatake
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
AGED: 27 years
ABV: 46.0%
BOTTLES RELEASED: 1,200
NOTES: Aged in American white oak and 3 sherry casks dating back to 1986
Komagatake
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
AGED: 30 years
ABV: 61.0%
NOTES: One of the oldest release to come out of Japan, distilled in 1986
Komagatake Yakushima Aging 2018
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
AGED: 3 years
ABV: 59.0%
BOTTLES RELEASED: 1,140
NOTES: Distilled at Mars Shinshu in Nagano but aged on the small island of Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site and rainforest off the coast of Kyushu
Komagatake Double Cellars 2018
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
ABV: 46.0%
BOTTLES RELEASED: 3,840
NOTES: Bourbon & new American oak casks - Distilled at Mars Shinshu distillery with half of the spirit being aged on site and the other half being aged at their Mars Tsunuki distillery site in southern Japan
Komagatake Shinano Tanpopo
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
AGED: 20 & 3 yrs
ABV: 52.0%
NOTES: 3rd expression in the Nature of Shinshu series, a blend of 20 year old sherry casks and 3 year old bourbon casks
Komagatake Kohiganzakura
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
AGED: 20 & 4 yrs
ABV: 52.0%
NOTES: 2nd expression in the Nature of Shinshu series, slightly peated 4 year old single malt married with 20 year old Japanese wine cask aged single malt
Komagatake Rindo
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
AGED: 20 & + yrs
ABV: 52.0%
NOTES: 1st expression in the Nature of Shinshu series, bourbon, sherry and Japanese wine cask aged single malt
Hoken Brandy
TYPE: BRANDY
AGED: 16 yrs
NOTES: Distilled 100% Japanese indigenous grapes and aged in virgin French oak for 16 years - single release
Iwai Brewer Clifton Wine Cask Finish
TYPE: BLEND
ABV: 40.0%
BOTTLES RELEASED: 601
NOTES: Iwai Tradition finished for 10 months in 2 pinot casks sourced from Brewer Clifton winery in Lompoc California
Iwai Yamanashi Wine Cask Finish
TYPE: BLEND
ABV: 40.0%
NOTES: Iwai Tradition finished in Chateau Mars cabernet and pinot noir casks
Komagatake Single Cask # 1453
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
AGED: 4.5 years
ABV: 58.0%
BOTTLES RELEASED: 175
NOTES: US exclusive - Bourbon barrel
Komagatake The Revival 2011
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
Komagatake Le Papillion 2018
TYPE: SINGLE MALT
AGED: 4 years
ABV: 60.0%
BOTTLES RELEASED: 182
NOTES: Single bourbon barrel distilled at Mars Shinshu and aged at the Mars Yakushima Island aging cellar, super-heavy peated cask selected