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Shinshu Mars Komagatake IPA Cask Finish 2020: A Fusion of Japanese Craftsmanship and Craft Beer Artistry
In the scenic landscapes of Japan, where innovation is a tradition, Shinshu Mars Distillery unveils a unique expression that transcends the boundaries of whisky and craft beer. The Shinshu Mars Komagatake IPA Cask Finish, bottled in 2020 at 52%, is a testament to the art of maturation and the collaborative spirit between the Mars Shinshu Distillery and the Minami Shinshu Brewery. This single malt Japanese whisky, having spent its final months on a used India Pale Ale (IPA) beer barrel, embodies the essence of freshness and a harmonious fusion of flavors.
Craft Beer Collaboration:
The story of the Shinshu Mars Komagatake IPA Cask Finish unfolds next to the Mars Shinshu Distillery, where the Minami Shinshu Brewery crafts delicious brews using locally sourced ingredients. The IPA beer barrel, known for its distinct hop-forward and fruity characteristics, becomes the vessel for the final maturation of this single malt Japanese whisky. The collaboration between whisky and craft beer introduces a new dimension to the traditional maturation process.
Tasting Notes:
Nose:
Upon nosing, the Shinshu Mars Komagatake IPA Cask Finish reveals a burst of citrus fruits, offering a refreshing and vibrant introduction. As the aroma unfolds, the influence of the IPA beer barrel becomes apparent, with subtle hints of vanilla weaving through the citrus notes.
Taste:
The palate is greeted with a sweet and malty embrace, a signature of Shinshu Mars Komagatake whiskies. The citrus notes linger in the background, adding a layer of complexity. The interplay between the sweet maltiness and the fruity essence mirrors the characteristics often found in IPA beer, creating a well-rounded and harmonious tasting experience.
Finish:
The finale of the Shinshu Mars Komagatake IPA Cask Finish is a symphony of sweet and bitter notes, reminiscent of the balance found in a well-crafted IPA beer. As the journey concludes, a clear influence of the beer barrel emerges, leaving a distinct and memorable impression on the palate.
A Celebration of Freshness:
The IPA Cask Finish is a celebration of freshness and collaboration. The Shinshu Mars Komagatake IPA Cask Finish showcases not only the expertise of the Mars Shinshu Distillery in crafting exceptional whisky but also the innovative spirit of the Minami Shinshu Brewery in producing distinctive craft beer. It is a testament to the harmonious relationship between these two crafts, resulting in a whisky that is both traditional and avant-garde.
Conclusion:
As enthusiasts savor the Shinshu Mars Komagatake IPA Cask Finish 2020, they embark on a sensory journey that bridges the worlds of whisky and craft beer. This expression is a celebration of innovation and collaboration, a fusion of Japanese craftsmanship and craft beer artistry. It is a reminder that the boundaries of flavor exploration are limitless, and in the bottle, one finds not just a whisky but a testament to the dynamic and evolving landscape of Japanese spirits.
