Mars : Tsunuki 2023 Edition

Characteristics and Tasting Advice of the Tsunuki 2023 Edition by Mars

Tasting

Nose
The nose reveals sweet and tangy notes of Japanese loquat, evoking a refined marmalade. A subtle hint of peat is accompanied by nuances of honey and pancakes.

Palate
The palate is energetic and fruity. Mingling with fresh lemon zest, the rich, complex malt character ensures a harmonious balance that carries the tasting through to a finish that is both sweet and powerful.

Pairings and Tasting Occasions

This Japanese single malt is best enjoyed neat to appreciate its full aromatic complexity. Its richness and balance make it a perfect companion for moments of contemplation at the end of a meal.

A Japanese whisky from Kagoshima with fruity and lightly peated aromas

The Mars Distillery, Pioneer of Japanese whisky

Founded by Kiichiro Iwai, the Mars distillery has been producing Japanese whisky for several decades with a history marked by the closure of Komagatake in 1992 and its reopening in 2011, complemented by the launch of Tsunuki in 2016. Located in the mountainous region of Kagoshima on the island of Kyūshū at about 800 meters of altitude, Mars benefits from the warm climate of southern Japan and uses spring water from Mount Kurata. The company has developed an additional aging warehouse on Yakushima Island. Its particularity lies in the blend of whiskies aged primarily in first- and second-use bourbon casks, finished in sherry and port casks for aromatic complexity.

The Tsunuki 2023 Edition, Expression of the Kagoshima Terroir

This 2023 edition of Tsunuki perfectly showcases the expertise of the Mars distillery in southern Japan. Crafted from 100% malted barley, this single malt benefits from a minimum of 3 years of aging mainly in first- and second-use bourbon casks, with further finishing in sherry and port casks that imparts remarkable complexity.

The hot and humid climate of Kagoshima, markedly different from that of the Komagatake distillery located in the Japanese Alps, directly influences the profile of this Japanese whisky, providing it with exceptional fruity richness. The use of spring water from Mount Kurata and the medium peat level create a perfect balance between smoky notes and a fruity aromatic palette. Bottled in a case at 50% alcohol and non-chill filtered, this Tsunuki 2023 Edition preserves the full integrity of its natural aromas.