Mars Maltage “Cosmo” Wine Cask Finish Japanese Blended Whisky (700ml)

Mars Maltage “Cosmo” Wine Cask Finish Japanese Blended Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml          ABV: 43%          Age: No Age Statement         Country: Japan

Mars Shinshu (to give it it’s full name) is a three hour drive northwest towards the Southern Alps. The distillery sits at 800 metres (2625 ft) which makes it the highest distillery in Japan. Better known as Mars distillery, it opened in 1985 using stills made for a mothballed distillery called Yamananashi. The distillery then closed in 1992 and the reopened again in 2011. It is now newly renovated and looking very modern and clean. Barrels are stored onsite and in other regions of Japan to help experience less fluctuation in temperature.

This limited edition whisky from Mars was released by Hombo Shuzo who also operates a winery in Yamanashi prefecture in Japan, most likely where the barrels were acquired. The barrels have created a whisky that is a rich red colour that expresses lots of red fruits and some exciting spice. A 2020 release bottled at 43% abv.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: Summer red fruits of cherries, strawberries and raspberries. Vanilla sponge and soft spice.

Palate: Orange marmalade, macerated cherries, toasted oats, honey sweetness and bold spice.Charred pineapple, banana sweeties, vanilla slice and dark chocolate. Citrus and red summer fruits, maritime notes and pistachio.

Finish: Citrus and oak leads to plenty of fruity notes and spice.