Mars Iwai Tradition is a blended Japanese whisky from the Mars Shinshu Distillery in Nagano, Japan's highest-altitude distillery, bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV).
Mars Shinshu sits 798 meters above sea level in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, between Japan's Southern and Central Alps. The founders chose this remote site for its consistently cool temperatures, which slow cask maturation, and for exceptionally soft water filtered through granite from alpine snowmelt. Iwai Tradition blends malt and grain whiskies distilled in copper pot stills, and it has earned 88 points from Whisky Advocate and a Silver Outstanding medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.
Soft and rounded yet full bodied and mellow, it offers vanilla, butterscotch and pome fruit with dried fig, cherry and caramel apple, and a creamy texture.
The bold kanji label makes it a handsome gift for Japanese whisky fans.
Japanese whisky has earned a worldwide reputation for balance and precision, and limited releases from its historic distilleries are among the most sought-after bottles for collectors.
Japanese whisky is often enjoyed in a tall, ice-cold Highball.
Cool mountain air slows maturation, building a gentle, refined character.
Serve it neat in a Glencairn to enjoy the vanilla aroma.
A single large ice cube makes it an easy sipper.
It makes a refreshing Highball with a lemon twist.
Pair a pour with grilled salmon or yakitori.
It is a great introduction to Japanese whisky.
Its bold kanji label stands out on any shelf.
Try it in a Japanese-style Old Fashioned.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Vanilla, butterscotch, pome fruit.
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Palate: Creamy, dried fig, cherry, caramel apple.
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Character: Soft, rounded, mellow.
Specifications
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Distillery: Mars Shinshu, Nagano, Japan
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Style: Blended Japanese whisky
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Altitude: 798 meters
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Stills: Copper pot stills
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Proof / ABV: 80 proof (40% ABV)
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Region: Japan
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Enjoy it in a Japanese-style Highball with sparkling water, or sip it neat or on the rocks. It pairs with yakitori, tempura or apple desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is it made?
At Mars Shinshu in Nagano, Japan's highest-altitude distillery.
How does it taste?
Soft and creamy with vanilla, butterscotch and caramel apple.
How should I drink it?
In a Highball, neat or on the rocks.
Explore more in our Japanese Whisky collection.
