Mars

Mars Whisky is one of Japan’s most intriguing whisky producers, known for its combination of high-altitude distillation, diverse ageing environments, and a willingness to experiment with style. Owned by Hombo Shuzo Co., a company with a long history in shochu and other spirits, Mars operates two distilleries — Shinshu in Nagano Prefecture and Tsunuki in Kagoshima, each with its own climate and character. This dual approach allows Mars to produce whiskies with a remarkable range of flavour profiles, from light and delicate to rich and full-bodied.

A Family-Owned Producer with Deep Roots

Hombo Shuzo was founded in 1872, initially producing shochu and wine before venturing into whisky in the 1940s. After experimenting with blending, the company opened its first whisky distillery in Yamanashi in 1960, later relocating to the Shinshu Distillery in 1985. Economic challenges led to a temporary closure in 1992, but Shinshu reopened in 2011 as global interest in Japanese whisky surged. The second site, Tsunuki Distillery, began production in 2016.

Two Distilleries, Two Climates
• Shinshu Distillery - Located at 798 metres above sea level in the Japanese Alps, it is Japan’s highest whisky distillery. Cool temperatures and pure alpine water from snowmelt create a slow, gentle maturation environment, yielding elegant, nuanced whiskies.
• Tsunuki Distillery - Situated in the warmer, humid climate of southern Kagoshima, Tsunuki offers faster maturation and produces richer, more robust styles.

This dual-site production allows Mars to marry contrasting elements in its blends or highlight them individually in single malt releases.

Production Philosophy

Mars employs traditional copper pot stills and a variety of cask types, including ex-bourbon, sherry, wine, and Japanese oak (mizunara). Small-scale production and seasonal distilling, particularly at Shinshu, where winter closures are common due to snow — allow for careful attention to detail and cask management.

Our Selection

Our Mars Whisky range features both Shinshu and Tsunuki single malts, signature blends like Cosmo, and rare limited editions. Whether you’re a Japanese whisky enthusiast seeking terroir-driven expressions or a collector hunting for distinctive small-batch releases, Mars offers a fascinating perspective on Japan’s whisky craft, one shaped by altitude, climate, and a dedication to detail.