Hombo Shuzo Mars Tsunuki The First Single Malt Japanese Whisky 750ml

Over the past few years, Hombo Shuzo has been quietly revolutionizing their Single Malt offerings. Their latest release comes from their brand-new distillery, located at the southern tip of Kyushu, just 50 kilometers south of Kagoshima - the same town where Hombo Shuzo was founded. The purpose of this new distillery was not to increase production but to allow for experimentation with a new terroir and achieve diversity of spirit. In contrast to their Mars Shinshu distillery in Nagano, which has a different climate, the Tsunuki distillery has much higher humidity and greater temperature fluctuations, both seasonal and diurnal.

This small-batch limited edition was distilled between 2016-17 and bottled in 2020 at 59% ABV. A blend of both bourbon and sherry casks, it offers a rich and complex flavor profile. According to the distiller, it has an elegant sweetness akin to vanilla and maple syrup, with flavors of banana crepe and apple pie adding complexity to the whisky. The impression on the senses is round and rich, with the sweetness and richness from the bourbon barrels and sherry casks lingering on the finish. Overall, Hombo Shuzo's latest Single Malt release is a testament to their commitment to innovation and their dedication to creating exceptional whiskies.