Who is Iwai whisky named after?

Iwai is named for Kiichiro Iwai, a chemist and distiller who worked alongside Masataka Taketsuru — the founder of Nikka and a foundational figure in Japanese whisky — in the industry's earliest days. Mars Shinshu Distillery honours him with the Iwai range.

Shop Japanese WhiskyIwai

Aged & Amber Spirits Vault•2 Direct Allocations

Iwai Whisky — Iwai 45 & Iwai Tradition Allocations

Iwai is produced by Mars Shinshu Distillery, named for founder Kiichiro Iwai, a distiller who worked alongside Masataka Taketsuru in Japanese whisky’s earliest days. Iwai 45 is bottled at a fuller 90 proof for extra body, while Iwai Tradition is the lighter, more approachable standard blend — both matured in ex-bourbon oak.

Last updated: August 2026

Buy Iwai online — direct allocations shipped to every state with compliant direct-to-consumer alcohol shipping laws.

Higher-Proof Iwai90 Proof

Blended Japanese Whisky750ml

Mars Iwai 45 Japanese Whisky

A higher-proof, bourbon-leaning blend from the Japanese Alps.

Cask: Ex-Bourbon OakNo Age Statement

$35

$32 with Crypto

Everyday Highland Malt80 Proof

Blended Japanese Whisky750ml

Mars Iwai Tradition Japanese Whisky

A light, everyday blend from Japan's highest-altitude whisky distillery.

Cask: Ex-Bourbon OakNo Age Statement

$33

$30 with Crypto

Iwai — Frequently Asked Questions

Iwai 45 is bottled at a higher 90 proof for a fuller, more bourbon-leaning body. Iwai Tradition is bottled at a lighter 80 proof, giving a softer, more easy-drinking style suited to mixing. Both are produced at Mars Shinshu Distillery and matured in ex-bourbon oak.