Iwai Whisky 45, from Mars Shinshu Distillery in Japan, blends 30% malt whisky from Shinshu with 70% grain whisky from various sources. Distilled mainly from corn and malted barley and aged in ex-bourbon barrels, it is a higher-proof version of Iwai Blue Label.
The palate folds in more flowery notes, a mix of potpourri and fresh cedar, with a honeyed sweetness and a buttery popcorn character evident on the finish. Amazing depth and lots of fun, especially at this price.
It’s a delicious and unusual whisky from Japan, less aligned with the country’s scotch-like tradition of malts and blends and more similar to bourbon, being made mostly from corn.
