Kiichiro Iwai, creator of Mars
Kiichiro Iwai, the creator of Mars Whiskey, was known as a leading expert in alcohol refining technology. He was also the person who sent Masataka Taketsuru, the first Japanese to learn whiskey making, to Scotland.
Iwai became an advisor to the Honbo Brewery and was entrusted with the planning of the whiskey department. Based on the “Whiskey Training Report” submitted by Mr. Taketsuru, the origin of domestic whiskey, and his own professional knowledge and experience, he was involved in the design and production guidance of the factory. In this way, “Mars Whiskey,” which is linked to the historical lineage of Japanese whiskey dating back to its creation, was born.
More than half a century
since the Iwai-type pot still has been in operation
The distillation pot still is a symbol of whiskey production. The pot still designed by Mr. Iwai is still in operation at the Mars Komagatake Distillery, and the first pot still is on display.
The pot still is an essential part of the history of Mars Whiskey, and the blended whiskey “Iwai Tradition” is named in gratitude and respect for Mr. Iwai.
More than half a century since the Iwai-type pot still has been in operation