Shinshu Mars Distillery The Lucky Cat 'May' Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

No.4 in a series released by the President of Mars whisky, Mr. Hombo. Each cute cat represents one that was rescued by Mr. Hombo. 'May' follows after The Lucky Cat 'Sun', 'Ash 99' and 'Mint' - all of which sold out soon after release. Reports have it that prices are already escalating for the collection in Japan - if you can find them...

Blended and bottled at the Mars Shinshu Distillery, the latest edition was finished in umeshu (plum wine) casks from the Mars Tsunuki distillery. The resulting whisky promises a nose of fresh plum with a nice sweet / dry balance. And of course, the label will please all cat lovers!

Other reviews... Nose: Bergamot orange peel, tobacco leaves, and a bit of leather. It soon moves into brown sugar-coated prunes. Palate: Those prunes come front and center right off the bat. Later we get a hint of green apple and blackcurrant, while moving very gradually into vanilla custard. If you're into sweeter Scotch, you'll be right at home. Finish: Some smokiness and oak come through towards the end here. The grain also sticks its head out quite a bit, with lingering corn and oats. 10 minutes later, that tobacco leaf is still around. It may not have a ton of depth but I enjoyed "May." Though not a proper Japanese whisky, the umeshu finish does bring a certain sweet tartness that's hard to find elsewhere. 40% Alc./Vol. - nomunication.jp