Mars Shinshu Iwai Whisky

Here’s a refined overview of Mars Shinshu Iwai Whisky, a flagship expression from Japan’s high-altitude Mars Shinshu Distillery

About the Distillery

• Founded: Mars Shinshu sits at 798 m in Nagano Prefecture, making it Japan’s highest whisky distillery
• Heritage: Established by the Hombo family—experienced distillers dating back to 1883, Mars began whisky-making in 1949 before relocating Shinshu in 1984

Iwai Whisky – Flagship Blended Grain

• Name Origin: Named after Kiichiro Iwai, mentor to Nikka founder Masataka Taketsuru, honored as the “silent pioneer” of Japanese whisky
• Profile: A blended grain whisky—a mix of mainly grain whisky with malt support, wholly aged in ex-bourbon barrels
• ABV: 40% for the standard Iwai; a bolder version, Iwai 45, comes in at 45% aimed at cocktail use

Tasting Notes

Standard Iwai (40 % ABV)

• Nose: Lightly sweet with pear, quince, light red fruit, and vanilla aromas
• Palate & Finish: Smooth, balanced, subtly fruity with a touch of spice—pear, quince, red fruit, sweet vanilla

Iwai 45 (45 % ABV)

• Nose: Autumnal spice, straw, dried apricot with floral undertones
• Palate: Softly brandy-like from cherry wood influence, finishing with cotton-candy sweetness and ripe red berries

Style & Serving Suggestions

• Style: Approachable blended grain—lean, light, with gentle richness from aging.
• Great For: Everyday sipping, cocktails like Old Fashioned or Mint Julep (especially the 45%), and whisky newcomers drawn to easy-drinking Japanese spirits

Extended Lineup – Iwai Tradition

• Iwai Tradition: A cask-hybrid blend matured in bourbon, sherry, and wine casks—richer and more layered than standard Iwai
  • Tasting notes: honey, ripe cherry, toffee, ginger spice, light peat
  • Finish variants include wine cask, chestnut, plum liqueur, and Cabernet cask editions