Its definitely not my first bottle of whiskey and I can say it has no characteristics other than it tastes like bottom of the barrel Metho to me and it smells like Jonny walker Red.

I am mainly a scotch drinker. Recently started to venture other types. Somehow, nowadays, I like Bourbon over scotch. But, wait a sec, this is my first Japanese whisky, and it is awesome. What a taste? Beautiful, soft and elegant, full of flavor and taste. I haven't try other Japanese whisky yet, but for sure, Japanese whisky will replace my scotch now.

I normally like whiskey with a drop of water but this is so smooth you can have it straight from the bottle Highly recommended

This warm full body whisky is a great intro to Japanese whisky. Not as subtle as Hibiki, not as caramel as Yamazaki, Mars is a beautiful scotch style whisky with the subtlety of Japanese craftsmanship. With lovely barrel notes, slight sugars, grains and a hint of caramel, this whisky can easily become a regular feature on the home bar. If you like The Balvenie doublewood you’ll like this.

Nose: Ripe fruit, oranges, vanilla, cinnamon, floral and unfortunately a fairly present ethanol smell. Taste: Oak and spice, very fruity, raisins, citrus, toffee. Finish: Short, spicey, some sherry and peat. Overall: A very friendly Japenese whisky which is easy drinking and nice, but not overly complex. Like most Japanese whiskies, its expensive for a NAS.

I used to be obsessed with single malt whiskeys from Islay etc. I bought a bottle of Yamazaki 12 year on the recommendation of a bottle shop guy in about 2016 - it was on special for $70! (Excellent though I wouldn't buy it at the price it is now). I was converted to the Japanese style - seemed too smooth and stylish at first - like a good Bryan Ferry song - but I thought it was a gimmick until I started to appreciate the different approach. Anyway. Years later I bought a bottle of this on recommendation. Sits true to the modus operandi. This one is a bit too sweet up front but develops into a tremendous symphony of gentle smoke, dried fruits and a comforting fug of Bogart nostalgia. Play it again!