Mars Whisky's 'Single Malt Tsunuki 2026 Edition,' 'TSUNUKI KUMQUAT,' and 'Premium Umeshu' Awarded Gold Medals at Prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) 2026

Mars Shuzo Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Kagoshima City; President: Kazuto Motofuji) is proud to announce that its 'Single Molt Tsunuki 2026 Edition,' 'TSUNUKI KUMQUAT,' and 'Premium Umeshu' have been awarded Gold Medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) 2026, one of the world's most prestigious spirits competitions, held in the United States.

[San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) 2026 Award Results]

Single Malt Tsunuki 2026 Edition: Gold Medal (93 points)

Ingredients: Malt; Alcohol by volume: 49%

Volume/Price: 700ml / gift box 9,020 yen

'Single Malt Tsunuki' is produced at Mars Tsunuki Distillery, nestled in a lush mountainous region in the southwest of the Satsuma Peninsula, blessed with the region's unique climate of significant temperature variations and high-quality spring water from the Kuroudake mountain range. The '2026 Edition' is a single malt whisky released in 2026, crafted by vatting malt spirits matured in a variety of casks, primarily bourbon barrels and sherry casks.

TSUNUKI KUMQUAT: Gold Medal (92 points)

Ingredients: Fermented alcohol, sugar, kumquat, alcohol by volume: 40%

Volume/Price: 700ml / 3,300 yen; 700ml / gift box 3,520 yen

'TSUNUKI KUMQUAT' is a liqueur that captures the essence of kumquats, a specialty of Tsunuki, Kashida, Minamisatsuma City—the birthplace of Mars Shuzo—using a proprietary production method. It is characterized by its clear appearance, refreshing aroma, and rich yet slightly bitter sweetness.

Grown in the warm climate of southern Kyushu under abundant sunshine, kumquats from Tsunuki are used along with dried kumquat peel (dry peel) to extract a delicate, recognizable fragrance and subtle bitterness. This original liqueur encapsulates the full delicious qualities of kumquats.

Without using any artificial flavorings, colorings, or acidifiers, this colorless, transparent liqueur concentrates the natural aroma and flavor of kumquats. It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as on the rocks, mixed with soda, or as a base for original cocktails. It is also suitable for use in desserts.

※KUMQUAT: English for 'kinkan' (kumquat)

Premium Umeshu: Gold Medal (92 points)

Ingredients: Ume fruit, fermented alcohol, brandy, sugar, honey

Alcohol by volume: 14%; Volume/Price: 1,800ml / 2,490 yen,

720ml / 1,210 yen

At Hoshiyagura, Mars Shuzo's dedicated umeshu production cellar, fresh, high-quality ume fruits are carefully steeped using traditional methods. 'Premium Umeshu' is meticulously aged without any artificial flavorings, colorings, or acidifiers. To enhance the natural plum aroma and refreshing tartness, a higher quantity of ume fruit is used, with brandy and honey added as accents, resulting in a superior-grade umeshu.

(All prices are recommended retail prices including tax)

[About the San Francisco World Spirits Competition]

Established in 2000 and held annually in the United States, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) is the largest spirits competition in the U.S. It features categories including white spirits, whisky, brandy, liqueurs, and others, and is recognized as one of the most prestigious competitions in the world. Entries are judged by category, with Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals awarded. Products receiving unanimous Gold Medal scores from the judges are further honored with the title of 'Best in Show Gold Medal.'

SFWSC Official Website:

https://thetastingalliance.com/events/san-francisco-world-spirits-competition

Press Release for SFWSC 2026 Whisky and Liqueur Gold Medal Awards:

d121144-67-20e5e0f05bf4a84209c0efe7d9a1368c.pdf

[For media inquiries]

Public Relations & Legal Affairs Department, Mars Shuzo Co., Ltd. 3-27 Minamisakae, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture

(891-0122) TEL 099-822-7003 FAX 099-210-1215