Cosmo

Mars Maltage Cosmo is a blended malt that marries Japanese and Scottish whiskies. Owned by Hombo Shuzo—a company founded in 1872—the brand traces its whisky heritage to the early 20th century, when the owner dispatched chemist Masataka Taketsuru to Scotland to study whiskymaking. The Mars Shinshu Distillery sits in Miyata village, Nagano Prefecture, at the foot of Mount Komagatake.

This blended malt draws on both Japanese and Scottish malts, balancing tradition with accessibility. The result is a gold-hued whisky with a soft, approachable character rooted in Japanese whisky philosophy.

The nose opens with hazelnut and praline, followed by caramel and hints of orange peel. On the palate, a full, creamy mouthfeel carries sweet malt and caramel, spiced with cinnamon and white pepper. Tobacco adds an intriguing depth, while vanilla and red fruit—cherry, sugary raspberry—emerge alongside orange oil and chocolate. A subtle smoky lift and toasty oak lead into a balanced finish.