Shinshu Mars Distillery Komagatake Rindo Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

Tasting note: A limited release of 8000 bottles exclusive for Japan. Pale gold. Pure and soft aromas include bubblegum and vanilla in the initial pass. Three minutes air contact accents rich malt, honey and tea biscuits. Superb balance with a creamy vanilla malt and soft spice delivery, then almost floral with subtle dried fig and high pitched vanillas carrying the finish. Distinctive and beautifully poised; heads towards cognac in terms of mouthfeel and style. 52% Alc./Vol.

The Shinshu distillery (aka "Mars"), founded in 1985 and in operation from 1985-1992 and then 2011 to present is actually Hombo Shuzo's third domestic distillery. The previous have been the Yamanashi Distillery (1960-1969) and the Mars Kagoshima Distillery (1978-1984). The main single malt brand from the current operation is sold under the 'Komagatake' label, named after a nearby mountain. It's available in a variety of single cask and natural strength expressions.