Michael Jackson Blend vs Mars Komagatake Shinanotanpopo - Nature of Shinshu

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Michael Jackson BlendMars Komagatake Shinanotanpopo - Nature of Shinshu
DistilleryBerry Bros. & RuddShinshu
Region
CountryEnglandJapan
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV43%52%
AgeNASNAS
Price£90.36£150
Rating5.00/54.50/5

Michael Jackson Blend

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner75/100
Value55/100

Mars Komagatake Shinanotanpopo - Nature of Shinshu

Smoke0/100
Sweetness53/100
Beginner45/100
Value30/100

Michael Jackson Blend

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Mars Komagatake Shinanotanpopo - Nature of Shinshu

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Michael Jackson Blend is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.50).

Michael Jackson Blend is better value at £90 vs £150.

For beginners: Michael Jackson Blend is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Michael Jackson Blend

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£90.36 vs £150)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Mars Komagatake Shinanotanpopo - Nature of Shinshu

Pros

  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (52%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£150 vs £90.36)
  • Lower community rating (4.5 vs 5.0)

Who should buy Michael?

Michael Jackson Blend is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Who should buy Mars?

Mars Komagatake Shinanotanpopo - Nature of Shinshu is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

VanillaToasted

Only Michael Jackson Blend

HoneyMalt ExtractOily

Only Mars Komagatake Shinanotanpopo - Nature of Shinshu

Fresh Fruit

Explore more