Buy Mars Online in NZ

Our range includes Mars Iwai Whisky, Mars Iwai Tradition, Mars Iwai Sherry Finish and Mars Cosmo. Browse more in our Japanese whisky range or the wider world whisky collection.

About Mars

Hombo Shuzo, a Kagoshima drinks company founded in 1872, opened the Shinshu distillery in Nagano in 1985. It sits around 800 metres above sea level in the Japanese Alps, where cool temperatures shape maturation. The Iwai range is named after Kiichiro Iwai, who advised the company on whisky making.

How to Enjoy Mars

Iwai and Iwai Tradition are easy blends for a highball with soda water and a lemon twist. Try the Sherry Finish and Cosmo neat or with a little water. Pair with yakitori, grilled fish, karaage or dark chocolate.

Mars FAQs

Where is Mars whisky made?

Mars whisky is made at the Mars Shinshu Distillery in Nagano Prefecture, high in the Japanese Alps. The company also runs a second distillery, Tsunuki, in Kagoshima.

Who was Iwai?

Kiichiro Iwai was a Japanese whisky pioneer who advised Hombo Shuzo on whisky production. The Mars Iwai range is named in his honour, and Iwai Tradition is one of its best-known blends.

What is the difference between Mars Iwai and Iwai Tradition?

Iwai is a lighter, bourbon-cask style blend suited to highballs. Iwai Tradition is a richer blend that includes sherry and other cask types, giving more dried fruit and spice.