Thirsty Thursday - Mars Japanese Whisky

Mars IWAI 45, 90 proof

Regular price: $39

Sale price: $34

Iwai 45 Japanese Whiskey is a higher proof version of the classic Iwai Tradition, bottled at 45% ABV (90 proof). This increase in strength brings out bolder flavors and a richer mouthfeel, making it an excellent choice for whiskey lovers who enjoy a bit more intensity in their dram. This whiskey is crafted with a high corn content, complemented by malted barley, and aged in ex-bourbon barrels. The result is a smooth and slightly sweet profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, baking spice, and hints of smoke.

Mars IWAI Tradition, 80 proof

Regular price: $52

Sale price: $45

Kiichiro Iwai (pronounced "E-Y") is the namesake of this blended whisky from Mars. Malt driven and complex, Iwai Tradition is truly a reflection of contemporary Japanese Whisky expressions. Made primarily of malted barley with a bit of added richness from grain, this whisky is matured in a medley of ex-bourbon, sherry, and red wine barrels. To provide a little added depth, a touch of peated malt is used. The result is a harmonious blended whisky full of toffee, vanilla, dark chocolate, and black tea that would make Iwai san proud.

Mars IWAI Tradition Sakura Cask, 80 proof

Regular price: $72

Sale price: $63

This Iwai Tradition is finished for 5 months in Sakura casks (Japanese cherry blossom). The Sakura casks are sourced from Ariake Sangyo Co., Japan’s only independent cooperage; the casks are rectangular due to the wood not being able to hold well in a traditional cask shape. Mash bill of 70% corn and 30% malted barley aged between 2–5 years in ex-bourbon, sherry, and American oak casks before finishing

Mars IWAI Tradition Napa Wine Cask finish, 80 proof

Regular price: $72

Sale price: $63

The Japanese are famous for their reverence for even the slightest changes in the seasons. It is no surprise that they craft special releases to reflect the nature of these changes. This limited release takes the classic Tradition, perhaps the best value in all Japanese Whisky, and finishes a batch in ex-Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Casks from a winery in Napa Valley. Notes include preserved yellow peaches, clover honey, brown butter biscuits, baked apples and nutmeg.

Cocktails

Golden Pagoda

2 oz IWAI 45

1 oz Ginger liqueur

½ oz Yuzu liqueur

Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into up glass

Japanese Highball

2 oz IWAI Tradition

2 dashes molasses bitters

4 oz club soda

Combine all ingredients, stir well and serve over ice in a collins glass