Shinshu Mars Distillery Iwai Tradition Blended Japanese Whisky (750ml)

High up in Miyata village on Kuyshu Island is the Shinshu distillery (aka "Mars"), founded in 1985 by Hombo Shuzo Ltd, a producer of shochu since 1872. Shinshu’s whisky is distilled only during the island's harsh winters. In operation from 1985-1992 and then 2011 to present, this is actually Shuzo's third domestic distillery. The previous have been the Yamanashi Distillery (1960-1969) and the Mars Kagoshima Distillery (1978-1984).

Iwai Tradition is a malt and grain blend described by thejapanesewhiskyreview.com as "...a great session whisky."

Tasting note: Bronze gold colour. Soft aromas of ginger biscuit, rice pudding, vanilla and dry grass followed by delicate flavours of digestif biscuit, light cinnamon and vanilla. Suggestions of ovaltine and cigar box in the aftertaste. Crisp and slightly short to finish. Easy drinking. 40% Alc./Vol.