Mars Komagatake Single Malt — Japan's Mountain Whisky Now at Juraku

Tucked high in the Japanese Alps, where the air is crisp and the seasons move slower, a different kind of whisky is made. One shaped by altitude, precision, and patience.

We just brought that to Juraku.

What is Mars Komagatake?

Mars Komagatake is a Japanese single malt whisky produced at the Shinshu Distillery, the highest whisky distillery in Japan. Located at about 800 meters above sea level, the environment directly impacts the whisky: cold winters slow the aging process, clean mountain water creates a refined, smooth base, and seasonal extremes build complexity over time. The result is a whisky that is balanced, expressive, and incredibly clean.

Why We Poured It

Japanese whisky has become global, but not every bottle tells a real story. Mars Komagatake does, produced in small batches with tight quality control, a distillery history that includes a shutdown and revival, and climate-driven aging that creates a profile you won't get anywhere else. Each release has subtle variation, making it more interesting over time.

Flavor Profile

Nose: Fresh orchard fruit, honey, soft malt sweetness

Palate: Apple, pear, light vanilla, gentle spice

Finish: Clean, slightly dry, with a delicate oak presence

How We Recommend Drinking It

We keep it simple: neat for the full experience, add a few drops of water to open it up, or light rock if you want it slightly softer. If you drink bourbon, expect something lighter and cleaner. If you drink Scotch, think less smoke, more precision.

What to Pair It With

Yakitori (chicken thigh or skirt steak), karaage for contrast between crisp and clean, or Brown Butter Ramen for a richer, deeper combination. The whisky cuts through fat cleanly and resets your palate between bites.

Try It at Juraku

Available now at Izakaya Juraku in the Lower East Side. Ask your server for Mars Komagatake and we'll guide you through it.