Mars Komagatake 2023 Edition, 50%

A heady cloud of swirling spices and tangy citrus greets the nose with grapefruit, lime zest, candied orange, lemon peel, ground pepper, crystalized ginger, chantilly cream, and pencil shavings. Apple, pear, persimmon, malt, and vanilla flavors, with lime Jell-O, ginger, clove, and pepper, then chocolate and coffee notes to finish. There’s plenty of Japanese whisky character here, yet it also has excellent properties for Highballs and cocktails.