2019 Shinshu Mars Distillery Komagatake Tsunuki Aging Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.

The limited nature of these Tsuniki bottlings is seeing them sell fast. This is the third release, mostly matured in bourbon barrels. Distilled in 2016 and bottled in 2019 at natural strength, it's described as a full-bodied Japanese style with aromas and flavours of ripe apple, citrus fruits, toasted almonds and whipped cream. (Reports suggest this is limited to around 2300 bottles).

Worth following, Tsunuki is a new Mars distillery, located on a historic site in Kagoshima. With this second operation, Shinshu's owner, Hombo Shuzo will continue to expand his portfolio which presently includes the Komagatake single malts, Iwai Tradition, Twin Alps, Tsunagu blended whiskies and the Cosmo labels. Opened in 2016, the heart of the Tsunuki facility is located just next to the family home of the descendant of the founder of the brand (now transformed into a tasting bar and shop). This edition was, as the name suggests, aged in Kagoshima's tropical climate in barrels held at the Tsunuki distillery. According to one report, three types of cask are used - ex-Bourbon American Oak, ex-Sherry European Oak and casks which contained Umeshu, a Japanese liqueur of Ume the Japanese plum.