Iwai 45 is a blended Japanese whisky produced by Mars Shinshu Distillery, located at 2,625 feet in the Nagano Alps — Japan's highest whisky distillery. Named after Kiichiro Iwai, a pioneering figure in the history of Japanese whisky, this expression is crafted from a blend of 70% corn and 30% malted barley, aged 2–5 years in ex-bourbon barrels, and bottled at 45% ABV.

This higher-proof iteration of the classic Iwai whisky is designed with cocktail versatility in mind, offering confident structure alongside approachable flavor. On the nose, notes of chocolate-covered shortbread lead into a palate of brown sugar and ripe pear, finishing with a whisper of red fruit. Iwai 45 earned the #19 spot on Whisky Advocate's Top 20 Whiskies of 2020.

The Mars Shinshu Distillery was founded with a whisky license obtained in 1949 through the guidance of Kiichiro Iwai himself. The distillery's high-altitude location in the Japanese Alps contributes to the unique climate conditions that shape the character of its whisky.