This 8th edition of The Lucky Cat series features for the first time two of the distillery’s beloved cats. May, the eldest cat, featured on the 4th edition bottle seems to nurture a one-sided hatred of Luna, the youngest cat who was featured on the 7th edition bottle. As is true for aging whisky, the passing of time tends to smooth rough edges and their relationship has improved as a result. With any luck, May and Luna will someday exist as harmoniously as the flavors of this whisky.

We get notes of fresh cut Hinoki wood, pineapple skin, leather, and smoke on the nose. On the palate we get Concord grape, sea salt, butterscotch and leather with a bold finish of toasted marsh-mellow and cooked grain.

Mars Shinshu Distillery has the highest altitude of all the distilleries in Japan. Situated in Nagano (the Japanese Alps) at an elevation of over 2600 feet, the temperature drops to 5°F. With fresh, ample snowfall, Mars Shinshu Distillery is situated in an ideal place for whisky production.

Features

• Distilled in Nagano, Japan by Mars Shinshu Distillery
• ABV 40% Barrels: Ex-Sherry, Ex-Bourbon, American White Oak, Ex-Sakura
• Style: Blended Malt and Grain
• Production quantity: 990 bottles
• 25.3 fl oz (750ml)