Mars Shinshu Iwai 45 Japanese Blended Whisky

750ml & 90 Proof

Mars Shinshu Iwai 45 Japanese Blended Whisky is a Japanese Whiskey from the Mars Shinshu Whisky brand hailing from Japan.

What is Mars Shinshu Iwai 45 Japanese Blended Whisky?

Mars Shinshu Iwai 45 Japanese Blended Whisky stands out with its unique blend of malt and grain whiskies, offering a harmonious balance of fruity and malty notes. Interestingly, the Mars Shinshu distillery, nestled in the Japanese Alps, is Japan's highest whisky distillery at 798 meters above sea level, allowing for a cooler climate that influences the whisky's distinctive character.

Why do we love Mars Shinshu Iwai 45 Japanese Blended Whisky?

Mars Shinshu Iwai 45 Japanese Blended Whisky offers cocktail enthusiasts a chance to explore the softer side of Japanese whisky, with its gentle fruit and vanilla notes that play well in mixed drinks. At 45% ABV, it packs enough punch to stand up in cocktails while showcasing the delicate balance and craftsmanship of whisky made at Japan's highest-altitude distillery, nestled in the Japanese Alps.

How do you drink Mars Shinshu Iwai 45 Japanese Blended Whisky?

Mars Shinshu Iwai 45 Japanese Blended Whisky shines when sipped neat or with a splash of cool water, allowing its complex flavors to unfold on the palate. This versatile spirit also works well in whisky-forward cocktails, particularly those with citrus notes, and pairs beautifully with grilled meats or rich, savory dishes on cool autumn evenings.

$47.99

Translation missing: en.products.product.tax_line_html

Tasting Notes

How It's Made

Fun Facts

Product Details

Nose: Fresh apple and pear notes mingle with hints of vanilla and light oak. A subtle touch of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth. Faint floral undertones reminiscent of cherry blossoms emerge as the whisky opens up.

Palate: Smooth and medium-bodied. Ripe orchard fruits lead, followed by caramel and honey sweetness. Toasted almonds and a whisper of milk chocolate provide depth. Gentle spices like white pepper and ginger add complexity without overpowering.

Finish: Medium length with lingering fruit and spice. Dried apricot and a touch of citrus zest fade into soft oak and a pleasant maltiness. A subtle hint of smoke appears at the very end, leaving a clean and slightly dry sensation.

Mars Shinshu Iwai 45 is crafted at Japan's highest-altitude whisky distillery, where the cool mountain air and pristine snowmelt water contribute to its unique character. This blended whisky undergoes a meticulous production process, combining malted barley and corn distillates aged in a variety of casks, including ex-bourbon barrels and sherry butts, resulting in a harmonious and complex spirit.

Mars Shinshu Iwai 45 is crafted at Japan's highest-altitude whisky distillery, situated at 798 meters (2,625 feet) above sea level in the Japanese Alps. The extreme temperature fluctuations at this elevation contribute to its unique flavor profile.

Unlike most Japanese whiskies that use imported barley, Iwai 45 incorporates a portion of locally-grown "Hakumai" barley, traditionally used for sake production. This gives the whisky a distinctly Japanese character with subtle rice-like notes.

The distillery's water source, which flows from the granite rocks of Mount Komagatake, contains natural salts that enhance the whisky's complexity. This mineral-rich water is so pure that it's bottled and sold separately as a premium product in Japan.

Main Ingredient: Malted Barley
Country of Origin: Japan