This is a must-try if you are interested in getting in to Japanese whiskies. It is still reasonably priced and although there is no age statement, it is exceptionally smooth. Being a blended whisky it has some trademark grain sweetness which adds to the overall enjoyment. There is a hint of quality bourbon thanks to it being finished in ex-bourbon casks.

I had purchased the Iwai Tradition a while ago and thought I'd try the Bourbon barrel version and I absolutely loved it. A fresh clean palate with hints of caramel, dried fruits and roasted nuts.I thought it was incredibly good value compared to what you can pay for some Japanese whiskies nowadays

Me and a friend got this to try. Both were not impressed at all, not very complex especially for the money we paid. We ended up mixing it with coke, it was more enjoyable. I would much rather spend an extra $30-$40 on some of the other Japanese whiskys

We had a Whiskey appreciation night, with 16 different types, ranging from, bourbon, rye, blended scotch, single malts etc..All had to be $100 or less. And all were disguised in a brown paper bag. I spent a bit of time looking at reviews on line ect..I have tried Japanese whiskey before and loved it. The result? The winner was a $75 Nikka from the barrel 500ml, second place 12yr old $60 Glen Glenfiddich so on and so on.....unfortunately the $90 Mars Iwai came in 2nd last. And no real positive feed back. I was disappointed to say the least. Its not a bad drop, but really nothing stands out here though. Maybe i need to try it again in a week or two.

Robust, crisp and smooth whisky. Soft arrival with no unpleasant burn, developing into robust oak and malt flavours with complex spicy undertones. Finish was slightly bitter, seemingly masking any vanilla notes. 10 minutes later, this whisky transformed completely. Silky smooth with complex cooked fruit, spices and wood. Good to let this whisky open up and develop its complexity.