Mars Iwai 45 Japanese Whisky

A rich, "American style" Japanese Whisky (Bourbon) by Mars Shinshu Distillery in Nagano, Japan crafted with a mash bill of high corn (75%) & relatively high malted barley (25%), then aged in ex-Bourbon casks before being bottled at 45% ABV. It has an aromatic birth with notes of vanilla, butterscotch with stewed apple & strawberry; while a rich life adds notes of ripe d’anjou pears, milk chocolate, quince & toffee; that led to a complex death of medium length with notes of corn & barley. December 2000 / August / December 2022

The palate of this whisky shifts towards a maltier personality, featuring wood dust, mint, and a slight malt funk at the outset. As it lingers, it unfolds into cereal notes along with unripe melon and lemon zest, presenting a spirit-forward profile with minimal wood cask influence, indicative of its younger age, marked by classic notes of fresh cut grass and wet hay. The mouthfeel is adequate but unremarkable, and the increased alcohol content to 45% ABV prevents it from feeling diluted, potentially enhancing its presence in cocktails. However, despite the higher ABV, the finish is unexpectedly short and can quickly become bitter, transitioning from the malty and fruity nuances of the nose and palate to flavors reminiscent of black tea and buttered popcorn.

Quite harsh and bourbon like. Strong cough syrup and fake sugar vibe.