Mars Malt Duo – Tsunuki × Akkeshi 700ml

Mars Malt Duo Tsunuki × Akkeshi is a limited-edition Blended Malt Japanese Whisky bringing together malt whiskies from two of Japan's distinctive whisky-producing regions: Tsunuki in Kagoshima and Akkeshi in Hokkaido.

The collaboration began in 2018, when the two distilleries exchanged malt spirits and began maturing them in their respective environments. For this release, the Tsunuki and Akkeshi malts were brought together and matured at the Mars Tsunuki Distillery, creating a whisky that explores the influence of different Japanese climates and distillery characters within a single expression.

The whisky is bottled at a robust 51% ABV and is composed primarily of malt distilled in 2018. Predominantly matured in ex-Bourbon barrels, it showcases a balance of ripe fruit, creamy sweetness, gentle peat, and rich malt character. The result is an expressive Japanese whisky designed around the contrasting yet complementary personalities of Tsunuki and Akkeshi.

Tasting Notes
Colour

Rich golden amber.

Nose

Aromatic and inviting, with ripe tropical and orchard fruit, custard-like sweetness, vanilla, and gentle malt. Subtle smoky and lightly peated nuances add complexity.

Palate / Taste

Full and layered, showing juicy ripe fruit, creamy custard, vanilla, and soft malt sweetness. Gentle spice and lightly smoky notes develop alongside the fruit, creating a rich and balanced character.

Finish

Long and warming, with lingering fruit sweetness, creamy malt, gentle smoke, and subtle spice.