Mars Iwai Tradition 'Natsu' Umeshu Cask Finish Japanese Whisky
Mars Iwai Tradition 'Natsu' Umeshu Cask Finish Japanese Whisky is a 40% ABV (80 proof) blended Japanese whisky in a 750mL bottle — a limited annual release from Mars Shinshu Distillery in Nagano, finished an additional 6 months in casks that previously held Japanese plum wine (umeshu). The base is a blend of 70% malted barley and 30% corn, primarily aged in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, and it is non-chill filtered. It is in stock and available to order online now at Del Mesa Liquor.
- Proof / ABV: 40% ABV / 80 proof
- Size: 750mL
- Aging: ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks (plus wine/port/new oak by batch), finished 6 months in umeshu (plum wine) casks
- Origin: Mars Shinshu Distillery, Nagano, Japan
- Production: 70% malted barley / 30% corn blend, non-age statement, non-chill filtered, annual limited release
Plum Wine Meets Mountain Whisky
Umeshu — sweet-tart liqueur of fresh unripe plums steeped in spirit and rock sugar — is one of Japan's most beloved drinks, and finishing Iwai Tradition in its casks adds a honeyed sweet-sour plum note to the whisky's baking-spice core. The 'Natsu' (summer) edition is a seasonal expression. Compare with other Japanese whisky finishes, or explore the full Mars Shinshu Distillery lineup at Del Mesa Liquor.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Honey, toffee, and ginger spice with a nose of cinnamon.
Palate: Baking spice and black tea lifted by sweet-and-sour plum.
Finish: Lingering sweet-tart plum and black tea.
How to Enjoy
Neat or with a single cube to let the plum-wine finish unfold. Its gentle 80 proof also makes a refined highball — top with chilled soda and a lemon twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an umeshu cask finish?
The whisky spends its final 6 months in casks that previously held umeshu, Japan's traditional plum wine, adding sweet-tart plum character.
What is Iwai Tradition?
An annual limited-release blended Japanese whisky (70% malt, 30% corn) from Mars Shinshu Distillery in Nagano.
What is the ABV?
40% ABV (80 proof).
Is it chill-filtered?
No — non-chill filtered.
Summer in a whisky bottle — order Mars Iwai Tradition 'Natsu' Umeshu Cask Finish online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA, while the annual release lasts.