Mars Tsunuki – 2023 (70cl, 50%)

This is the 2023 annual edition from the Mars Tsunuki distillery in Kagoshima, Japan, limited to 47,000 bottles. It is a vatting of malt whiskies matured mainly in ex-bourbon barrels, with some sherry casks, and the whiskies in it are at least three years old. Lightly peated barley adds a subtle smoke. It is bottled at 50% in a 70cl bottle, with no chill-filtration or added colour. The body is full and strong, with fresh fruit. The nose has sweet roasted grain, orchard fruit and woody smoke. On the palate there is orange marmalade, bergamot and grilled lemon. The finish keeps a campfire smokiness.