Mars Shinshu
IWAI 45
IWAI 45
Region: Nagano
Country: Japan
Volume: 750ml
ABV: 45%
The spirit is aged between 2 to 5 years in ex-bourbon barrels, allowing it to develop a captivating aroma and flavor profile. On the nose, Mars Komagatake offers enticing notes of chocolate-covered shortbread, followed by a palate rich with brown sugar and ripe pear. The whisky boasts a confident structure, with a subtle whisper of red fruit appearing on the finish, adding complexity and depth.
Recognized for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship, Mars Komagatake Blended Whisky was ranked #19 on Whisky Advocate’s list of Top 20 Whiskies of 2020. With an ABV of 45%, this blue-labeled Iwai (pronounced E-Y) expression is perfect for whisky enthusiasts seeking enhanced cocktail versatility, making it a versatile and sophisticated addition to any whisky collection.
About Brewery
Mars Shinshu
The Hombo family, founder of Mars, began producing shochu in 1909, expanding their portfolio over the years to eventually include their most popular product, whisky. They obtained their whisky license in 1949 with the help of their advisor, Mr. Kiichiro Iwai, an icon in the rise of Japanese whisky.
Currently, Mars has two distilleries and an additional aging site. Mars Komagatake (formerly called Mars Shinshu), is tucked away at 2,625 ft in the Nagano Alps, making it Japan’s highest whisky distillery. Nagano’s heavy snowfall and temperate climate provide an abundance of soft and delicate glacier water for use in a dynamic range of both blended and single malt expressions.
The Mars Tsunuki Distillery is located in Kagoshima, in the south of Japan, and the Yakushima Aging Cellar resides on the island of Yakushima, a UNESCO world heritage site.