Bardstown Bourbon Company has partnered with Japan’s Mars distilleries to release Distillery Reserve Mars Single Malt Japanese Blend, a first-of-its-kind whiskey created by co-aging Japanese single malt and Kentucky bourbon together in a single barrel. The limited release goes on sale May 29, 2026, priced at $99.99 (£74) for a 375ml bottle, available exclusively at Bardstown Bourbon Company’s distillery gift shop and its Louisville tasting room.
The production process involved shipping Japanese single malt whisky from Mars Komagatake and Tsunuki distilleries to Bardstown, Kentucky. The whisky was then introduced into barrels already containing mature bourbon aged 10 and 16 years.
Rather than a conventional finishing technique, the spirits aged together in-barrel for 12 months, allowing them to fully integrate through a warm Kentucky summer.
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READ THE STORYThe Japanese components are both crafted from 100% malted barley. Komagatake single malt, matured in Umeshu plum liqueur barrels, contributes fruit and floral complexity. Tsunuki single malt, matured in rare Sakura cherry wood barrels, adds delicate spice and subtle wood influence.
"This project is about more than blending—it’s about true integration," said Dan Callaway, master blender at Bardstown Bourbon Company. "By aging Japanese single malt whiskies together with Kentucky bourbon in the same barrel, we’ve created something entirely new. The result is a seamless conversation between two traditions, where neither overpowers the other, and both are elevated."
The whiskey is bottled at 109.8 proof (54.9% ABV).
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Official tasting notes from the brand describe caramelized plums over roasted malt and vanilla bean, leading to a rich, evolving palate of baked cherry and toasted oak, with a delicate finish.
Kazuto Hombo, president of Hombo Shuzo Co., makers of Mars Whisky, said: "We are hopeful that this collaboration will open up new possibilities in the art of whiskey-making. By fusing the techniques and philosophies each company has cultivated, and by utilizing carefully selected base whisky, aging environments, and delicate blending techniques, we aim to create a new whiskey experience that combines depth and elegance."
A reciprocal project is currently underway at Mars’ Tsunuki Distillery in southern Japan, where Bardstown Bourbon whiskey is being co-aged with Mars aging stock.
Hombo added: "Through this initiative, we intend to deliver unprecedented taste to our customers by respecting tradition while embracing innovation. While it will take a little more time, we are eagerly anticipating the results of this unique endeavor."
The Distillery Reserve platform launched in 2025 as a vehicle for small-scale, one-time-only releases. Prior editions have included Cathedral French Oak, Hokkaido Mizunara Oak, Normandie Calvados Brandy Barrel, and Cascadia Garryana Oak bottlings.
Bardstown Bourbon Company, part of Lofted Spirits, was named Icons of Whisky Global Brand Innovator of the Year in 2025 and IWSC Worldwide Whisky Producer of the Year in 2023.
