Chichibu Ichiro's Malt & Grain Limited Edition 2023

This Limited Edition has been named 'World's Best Limited Edition Blend' in four of the past six years at the World Whiskies Awards, highlighting their extraordinary quality, as well as the expertise and talent of the people who created them. Ichiro Akuto, the maker of this whisky, used only malt and grain whiskies from Japan and used the oldest stocks from the Chichibu distillery, as well as rare and precious casks from the closed Hanyu and Kawasaki distilleries. Hanyu, his grandfather's distillery, distilled only single malt, the youngest casks of which are now over 20 years old. Hanyu closed its doors in 2000. Kawasaki closed in 2004, so the grain whisky used in this blend is also at least 20 years old, but we can assume it is much older.

Tasting note

Nose

The nose opens with a lush complexity, full of aromas of dried fruits like sultanas and figs, complemented by rich honey notes and a hint of vanilla. A subtle layer of spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg follows, interwoven with floral undertones. The influence of Mizunara oak casks is evident with delicate hints of sandalwood and incense. The legacy of Hanyu Distillery contributes to a deep, complex fruitiness.

Taste

At the first sip, a full and rich flavour reveals itself. Notes of ripe apples, pears and tropical fruits mingle with layers of caramel and toffee, creating a sweet and creamy texture. Spicy accents emerge in the midpalate, with hints of oak and a touch of pepper. The influence of Kawasaki Distillery contributes a light but layered smokiness and a subtle hint of tobacco, adding an extra dimension to the flavour.

Finish

The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of sweet spice and a gentle smokiness that slowly fades. The subtle influence of Mizunara oak offers a unique exotic touch, with hints of sandalwood and incense. It is rounded off with a delicate nuttiness and a hint of leather, leaving each sip with a lasting and refined impression.

Overall impression

Ichiro's Malt & Grain Limited Edition 2023 is a masterfully balanced whisky, offering a harmonious blend of sweetness, spiciness and woody complexity. The influence of Mizunara oak, the rich fruity notes of Hanyu Distillery and the subtle smokiness of Kawasaki Distillery come together beautifully, making this limited edition a real treat for aficionados and an excellent choice for special occasions.

Chichibu Distillery

Chichibu Distillery is located in the picturesque town of Chichibu, about 100 kilometres northwest of Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 2008 by Ichiro Akuto, a renowned name in the Japanese whisky industry, Chichibu has quickly built a reputation for producing high-quality craft whiskies.

A unique feature of Chichibu is the use of locally grown barley and pure water from the surrounding mountains, which contributes to the exceptional quality of their whisky. The distillery combines traditional techniques with innovative approaches, including the use of a wide range of casks such as ex-bourbon, sherry and Japanese Mizunara oak casks. This creates complex and sophisticated flavour profiles.

Chichibu whiskies are known for their rich and versatile character, with notes of vanilla, fruit, spice and sometimes a subtle smokiness. The attention to detail and craftsmanship of Ichiro Akuto and his team are reflected in the international recognition and awards their whiskies have received.

The combination of a beautiful location, high-quality local ingredients and a strong commitment to quality makes Chichibu Distillery a respected name in the world of Japanese whisky.