Whisky, 'Iwai Tradition - Natsu Ume Cask'

• Limited, annual-release blended Japanese whisky from Mars Komagatake (aka Mars Shinshu) in Nagano, Japan
• Iwai Tradition, from Mars Komagatake’s core range, is finished in Japanese plum wine (umeshu) casks for an additional 6 months
• Distilled from 70% malted barley and 30% corn
• Iwai Tradition is non-age statement; aged primarily in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks (other cask types including ex-wine, port, & new oak may vary batch to batch)
• The honey, toffee, and ginger spice of classic Iwai Tradition is amplified by a nose of cinnamon and a lingering finish of sweet & sour plum and black tea
• Non-chill filtered; 40% ABV

Umeshu is a Japanese staple. Fresh, unripe plums are steeped in alcohol and rock sugar to create a sweet & sour liqueur that may be enjoyed on its own or mixed in multiple ways. Occasionally umeshu is aged, and in the case of Natsu Ume, the resulting casks kiss Iwai Tradition with a touch of sweet-tart plum while complementing the whisky’s inherent baking spice.