Mars Iwai Tradition ‘Natsu’ Umeshu Cask Finish Japanese Whisky

Iwai Tradition is a limited, annual release blended Japanese whisky from Mars Shinshu in Nagano, Japan. It is finished in Japanese plum wine (umeshu) casks for an additional 6 months, which amplifies the whisky’s honey, toffee, and ginger spice with a nose of cinnamon and a lingering finish of sweet and sour plum and black tea. This whisky is made from a blend of 70% malted barley and 30% corn and is primarily aged in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, although other cask types including ex-wine, port, and new oak may be used and can vary from batch to batch. Iwai Tradition is non-age statement and is non-chill filtered, with an alcohol content of 40% ABV. Umeshu is a popular Japanese liqueur made by steeping fresh, unripe plums in alcohol and rock sugar to create a sweet and sour flavor. In the case of Natsu Ume, the umeshu is aged in casks, which imparts a touch of sweet-tart plum flavor to Iwai Tradition and complements the whisky’s inherent baking spice.