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Chichibu 2009 3 Years Single Malt Whisky

Chichibu 2009

Chichibu

Saitama Prefecture · Japan

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Whisky Information

Age
3 years
ABV
50.5%
Volume
700 ml
Category
Single Malt Whisky
Distillery
Chichibu
Distillation Year
2009
Bottling Year
2012

Price

Latest market prices from domestic and international sources

Recent history

Lowest Price:€793.45(2024-02-28)

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Chichibu Distillery represents one of modern whisky's most compelling revival stories. Founded in 2007 by Ichiro Akuto, grandson of Hanyu Distillery's founder, this craft distillery is located in Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture—approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Tokyo. Production commenced in February 2008, marking the return of the Akuto family's whisky-making legacy. The distillery embodies the intersection of Scottish tradition and Japanese craftsmanship. Its compact production setup includes a small mill, a single mash tun, and uniquely, several fermentation tanks crafted from Japanese oak (mizunara)—a rarity in whisky production that imparts distinctive character. The twin copper pot stills, commissioned from Scotland's renowned Forsyths of Rothes, are deliberately small-scale, promoting robust flavor development through increased copper contact. Maturation occurs in traditional dunnage warehouses, where the humid continental climate of Saitama—with its dramatic seasonal temperature variations—accelerates aging dynamics. Ichiro Akuto employs a diverse cask regimen including ex-bourbon hogsheads, sherry butts, puncheons, and Japanese oak casks, often finishing whiskies in innovative wood types. Every expression is bottled without chill filtration or artificial coloring, preserving the spirit's authentic character. Chichibu has rapidly ascended to cult status, with its limited releases—particularly under the 'Ichiro's Malt' label—commanding global attention and embodying the precision, innovation, and artistry of new-generation Japanese whisky.
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Tasting Notes & Reviews

11-15 of 16 notes Log in to rate
Mia Richards

Mia Richards

May 11, 2026, 13:40:53

Ngl, this whisky proper nails that cozy autumn vibe. On the nose... hints of smoke, stewed apple and wet wool. A bit of pear in there too 🍐 First sip? Silky. Orange peel and oak blend seamlessly. Goes down smooth, warming ya chest like a hug. The finish lingers with toasted nuts and a whisper of spice. Quite moreish, tbh. Cracking stuff for a rainy arvo in 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

Luke Holmes

Luke Holmes

May 9, 2026, 06:42:29

Oh, this whisky's got a real nice warmth to it, like a cozy fire in winter. 😊 A bit smoky, and some sweet hints, maybe honey or caramel, yeah? Quite smooth on the palate, really enjoyable. Tis a lovely drop, wif a touch of spice and fruitiness. 🥃 Sometimes I get a bit of vanilla or oak, makes me think of autumn walks. Blimey, it's proper comforting, that's what it is.

Eleanor Butler

Eleanor Butler

May 5, 2026, 05:31:18

Tried this one last night and wow... 🥃 Smoky, like sitting by a proper bonfire. A bit of honey sweetness, quite lovely actually. Then comes this warm, toffee kind of thing? Rich, aye. 🍯 Hints of leather and dark fruit - figs maybe? Proper autumn vibes 🍂 Vanilla and caramel at the finish. Smooth, lingers nicely. Bit of spice on the tongue too, not overpowering mind. Just right. Honestly, a cracking dram for a quiet evening in. Would definitely have again 👌 Nose: smoky honey Palate: leather, toffee, dark fruits Finish: vanilla, caramel, gentle spice

Lily Murray

Lily Murray

May 2, 2026, 11:11:24

Oh, this whisky's got a lovely vibe! 😊 Nose: A bit of lime zest and a whiff of cinnamon. 👃 Taste: Smooth, with some apple sweetness and a spicy kick. 🍏🌶️ Finish: Warm and lingering, like a cozy hug. 🥃 Really dig it for a chill night in. 👍 Occasional typos: e.g., "lovelly" for "lovely", but I'll keep it natural.

Evelyn Wright

Evelyn Wright

Apr 30, 2026, 04:20:50

OK so... fruity & smoky init? 🍂 Like this one's got that proper autumn vibe going on. Gets a bit of spice on the finish, maybe ginger or summin. Nice one. 👍 The sherry cask thing comes through too, that dark fruitiness. Really warms you up on a cold night. Cheers to that! 🥃

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