Crafted in the picturesque alpine region of Nagano, Japan, **Iwai Tradition Japanese Whisky** by Mars Shinshu is a masterful blend that combines the elegance of Japanese precision with the rich heritage of traditional whisky-making. Named after Kiichiro Iwai, a pioneer of Japanese whisky, this expression features a 70% malted barley and 30% corn composition, aged in premium ex-bourbon, sherry, and wine casks. The result is a harmonious profile with layers of toffee, vanilla, and milk chocolate, complemented by hints of clove, cinnamon, and subtle peat. With a smooth, balanced character and a 40% ABV, Iwai Tradition is perfect for savoring neat, over ice, or in a classic highball, making it a versatile choice for both connoisseurs and those new to Japanese whisky.
Iwai Japanese Whisky is predominantly composed of grain whisky with a smaller proportion of malted barley. It is matured entirely in ex-bourbon barrels, which impart a smooth, slightly sweet flavor profile.
Kiichiro Iwai, a pioneer in Japanese whisky, was instrumental in developing whisky production techniques in Japan. He heavily influenced the designs of traditional distilleries. Iwai Japanese Whisky is named in his honor to celebrate his legacy.
Iwai Japanese Whisky offers a lean and slightly sweet palate with notes of pear, quince, hints of red fruits, and vanilla. The Iwai 45 variant has sharper fruit flavors, while the Iwai Tradition features toffee, vanilla, dark chocolate, and subtle black tea undertones.
It is aged in ex-bourbon barrels made of charred American oak, which enhances the whisky's smoothness and imbues it with rich flavors such as vanilla and oak. Some variants, like the Iwai Tradition, include aging in sherry and wine barrels for added complexity.
Iwai Whisky is crafted by the Mars Shinshu Distillery, located in the Japanese Alps in Nagano, at an altitude of 798 meters. The cool climate and pure mountain water contribute to the unique character of the whisky.
- **Iwai (40% ABV):** A balanced, approachable whisky known for its sweeter, fruity notes and versatility. - **Iwai 45 (45% ABV):** A higher proof version designed for cocktails, with sharper fruit flavors and robust texture. - **Iwai Tradition (40% ABV):** A malt-driven blend featuring flavors from ex-bourbon, sherry, and wine barrels, with additional complexity from lightly peated malt.
Yes, Iwai Japanese Whisky is inspired by American bourbon. Its composition and use of ex-bourbon barrels give it a sweeter and richer flavor profile reminiscent of bourbon while maintaining the elegance of Japanese whisky.
Iwai Japanese Whisky is versatile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. The Iwai 45, in particular, is designed to stand up to various mixers and is a favorite for crafting modern cocktails.
Iwai combines Japanese craftsmanship with influences from American bourbon, featuring high-altitude distillation, slow maturation, and innovative barrel aging techniques. These elements create a whisky that is both approachable and robust, appealing to a wide range of whisky enthusiasts.
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