Mars Komagatake Nature of Shinshu Shinanotanpopo

A combination of 20-year-old sherry cask whisky from before the Shinshu distillery ceased operations, along with 3-6 year old spirit from its reopening. This is a delightful dram with notes of berries, figs, honey, caramel, floral undertones, and faint wisps of peat on the finish. Nose: Blackberries, Milk Chocolate, Raspberries, Raisins, Blackcurrants, Plums, Cherries, Oranges, Nougat, Almonds, Salted Caramel, Iodine, Dates Palate: Raisins, Milk Chocolate, Plums, Cherries, Raspberries, Strawberries, Blackberries, Iodine, Smoke, Salted Toffee, Mocha, Nutmeg, Cloves, Cinnamon Finish: Plums, Raisins, Dark Chocolate, Lavender, Oranges, Almonds, Walnuts, Nutmeg, Figs, Dates

I am fond of the Komagatake series from Mars. The distinctions among each variation are evident and intriguing, yet they possess a good harmony that allows them to be appreciated as a collection. It's precisely crafted whiskey, very enjoyable to taste and compare. (And I'm giving this one a slightly higher score because it's my preferred of the three.)

Quite enjoyable, but the alcohol presence is quite strong. Adding a small ice cube is advisable.

Elegant, smooth, and very enjoyable with a subtle peat presence at the end.

The influence of ex-bourbon is detectable.