A phoenix rising from alpine slumber.
Mars Komagatake 1986 isn’t just a whisky—it’s a revival tale. Born in the shadow of the Central Alps and resurrected from silence, it captures the wild soul of mountain whisky, and continues to captivate a dedicated global fanbase.
Prologue: Slumber Beneath the Peaks
Founded in 1985 at 800 meters, Mars Shinshu Distillery aimed to channel mountain energy into whisky. But in 1992, production halted and the distillery lay dormant, its barrels untouched. The genesis of 1986 distillate lay buried, waiting—until 2011, when distillation resumed, and bottles from those original casks became symbols of resilience, giving life to a story of rebirth and rediscovery.
Scene 1: Terroir Etched in Altitude
The high-altitude environment—rapid seasonal swings and crisp alpine spring water—creates a maturation environment unique to Shinshu. Fans appreciate how this terroir, combined with volcanic filtration, gifts the whisky a mountain freshness and clarity rare in aged spirits.
Scene 2: The Cask’s Hidden Voice
Years in first-fill American oak and sherry barrels softened the spirit into layered elegance: dried berries, honeyed grain, balanced with herbal mint and gentle clove spice. Long-time fans note its “thick maltiness” and purity—traits reminiscent of classic single malts, yet uniquely Komagatake.
Scene 3: A Core Following Discovers a Keeper
Early tasters—especially from platforms like Reddit—praised this expression for its clarity, body, and balance. One fan wrote the distillery “has a very active climate… resulting in faster maturation” and lauded Komagatake’s “clarity and thick maltiness like Mortlach” . These qualities sparked passionate support among collectors and whisky explorers who seek authenticity and depth from a small Japanese distillery.
Scene 4: Revered Revival
When Komagatake 1986 was officially released around 2015, awards followed—validating its craftsmanship. Critics and dedicated whisky lovers praised how a once-silent mountain distillery embraced its terroir, climate, and tradition to produce something modern yet timeless.
Final Scene: The Heartbeat of Shinshu
Mars Komagatake 1986 isn’t just whiskey—it’s a living symbol of persistence. From closure to global acclaim, it’s proof that small distilleries possess the power to surprise—and to inspire. With each glass, we taste revival, altitude, and unwavering spirit.
🥃 What You Taste in Mars Komagatake 1986
- Mountain meadow herbs: pine resin, mint, honeyed grain
- Forest depth: baked berries, vanilla, wood spice
- Clarity & body: creamy yet transparent mouthfeel
- Alpine freshness: balanced richness with cool mountain air