Mars Shinshu Distillery Iwai Tradition Japanese Whisky
Product details
| Management number | 253518588 | Release Date | 2026/10/24 | List Price | CA$31.20 | Model Number | 253518588 | ||
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Mars Shinshu Iwai Tradition is a malt-driven blended Japanese whisky produced at the Mars Shinshu Distillery in the Nagano Prefecture. Situated in the Japanese Alps at an elevation of over 2,600 feet, it is Japan's highest whisky distillery. The spirit is named in honour of Kiichiro Iwai, a silent pioneer of Japanese whisky who designed the distillery's original pot stills and was the direct mentor to Masataka Taketsuru (the founder of Nikka). While the entry-level "Iwai" expression is corn-dominant and bourbon-like, the "Tradition" is a more complex, malt-heavy blend that pays homage to the classic Scottish styles Iwai-san admired.
Whisky Description
This whisky presents a bright bronze-gold colour. The nose is aromatic and complex, offering notes of wildflower honey, clove, and baked apple, with a very faint, earthy whiff of peat smoke. On the palate, the body is rounded and harmonious, delivering flavours of ripe pear, toffee, and milk chocolate, balanced by a gentle nuttiness and a touch of black tea. The finish is medium-long and clean, characterized by a soft ginger spice and a lingering sweetness of cinnamon and orange peel. It is a blend of approximately 70% to 75% malted barley and 25% to 30% corn, aged in a medley of ex-bourbon, sherry, and wine casks. It is bottled at 40% ABV.
Food Pairing
The balanced, fruit-forward profile of Iwai Tradition makes it a versatile companion for both Western and Japanese cuisine. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled steak or yakitori, where the charred savoury notes of the meat complement the whisky's subtle smoke and sweetness. For a dessert pairing, try it with dark chocolate or toffee-based biscuits to highlight the nougat and caramel undertones. Its soft, alpine character also makes it an excellent match for creamy cheeses like Brie or aged Gouda, as well as a refreshing accompaniment to a classic highball served with a twist of lemon.
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International Whisky
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