JAL to Offer Limited-Edition Japanese Whisky on International Flights in 2026
Japan Airlines will introduce a limited inflight sale of an exclusive Japanese single malt whisky on international services starting 1 January 2026. The product, SINGLE MALT TSUNUKI JAL EXCLUSIVE 2025, has been created by Hombo Shuzo at its Mars Tsunuki Distillery in Kagoshima Prefecture. The whisky will be available only to First and Business Class passengers and in strictly limited quantities.
The release forms part of Japan Airlines’ ongoing series highlighting Japanese craft distilleries through its inflight sales programme. This edition marks the thirteenth release in the collection and has been developed specifically for JAL. Sales will be offered via advance order through the airline’s international inflight shopping service, with availability linked to selected departure periods early in 2026.
Mars Tsunuki Distillery and Its Regional Roots
Mars Tsunuki Distillery is located in Minamisatsuma City, an area known for its warm southern climate, mountain basin geography, and natural water sources. Operated by Hombo Shuzo, the distillery relies on local climate and water conditions that shape both maturation and flavour. The site also carries clear traces of the company’s past, with historic equipment preserved on the grounds, pointing to its long involvement in Japanese spirits making and the continuity of its production traditions.
The whisky was matured for five years in casks previously used for plum wine, which shapes both its aroma and taste. According to the producer, it opens with a fresh, floral scent, showing notes of green leaves and mint, before moving into flavours of apricot and plum on the palate. Bottled exclusively for JAL, it is priced at JPY 20,000, with a limit of one bottle per passenger.
The onboard release also brings attention to Kagoshima and southern Kyushu, areas closely tied to Japan’s craft whisky production. Mars Tsunuki Distillery is located near coastal areas, volcanic terrain, and a strong regional food scene. The project shows how inflight retail is being used to introduce passengers to regional Japanese products, linking long-haul travel with places and traditions that sit outside the usual tourist circuits.
