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Chichibu Single Malt Whisky

Chichibu London Edition 2021

Chichibu

Saitama Prefecture · Japan

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Whisky Information

ABV
51.5%
Volume
700 ml
Category
Single Malt Whisky
Distillery
Chichibu
Bottling Year
2021

Price

Latest market prices from domestic and international sources

Recent history

Lowest Price:£290.00(2026-05-22)

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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

1-5 of 7 notes Log in to rate
Whiskyspace Notes 1414

Whiskyspace Notes 1414

Jun 4, 2026, 07:09:53

Just had a sip of this one – starts with a lovely coconut and dry chenins blancs vibe, kinda fresh and leafy with a hint of eucalyptus. The color's gold, and the peat is grand but tight, giving off a bit of rubber smoke. Totally straightforward and ultra-pure, like pencil shavings mixed with pure lime juice. Can taste rubberwood and grapefruits too, with a camphor kick. When it lingers, there's burning tyres in there, but balanced by seawater and teak oil. Herbal notes pop up as well. Perfect, really – it gets deeper and more profound the more you sit with it. 😊 Almost like a walk through a coastal forest after rain.

Whiskyspace Notes 1337

Whiskyspace Notes 1337

Jun 2, 2026, 16:01:42

First sip hits with dry chenins blancs dryness, then that burning tyres smokiness kicks in. So chiselled and ultra-pure, it's impressive. Aromas of pencil and graphite, mixed with Barbour grease – very British! Grand peaty flavours are tight, with seawater undertones. Totally straightforward, but grows more profound. The gold colour is immaculate. Eucalyptus adds freshness, and the blade-y finish with rubberwood is perfect. Shivers down your spine guaranteed! 😉

Whiskyspace Notes 1292

Whiskyspace Notes 1292

May 27, 2026, 13:47:36

第一口就感觉到一股冷冽的海水气息,接着是柠檬皮的清香,像是突然吹过一阵海风。然后慢慢有些烟熏味上来,不是那种厚重的,更像是在远处烧着什么... 嗯,有点像新车里的味道混着一点点烧焦的椰子壳? 后劲儿很长,从喉咙一直暖下去,后背甚至微微发麻。酒体很扎实,像木头在阳光下晒了很久的那种质感。细品还有点青草和香草的味道,挺清新的。 整体感觉很干净,但又不单薄,像一幅用铅笔勾勒得特别清晰的画,线条利落但底子很厚实。喝完杯底还留着一点点甜甜的木质香,挺舒服的。

Scott Lewis

Scott Lewis

May 18, 2026, 23:40:53

Quite cosy on the nose — bit of honey, pear and soft spice. Tastes warm and mellow, with a wee touch of oak and dried fruit 🥃 Finish is gentle, slightly sweet, and nicely warming.

Hollie Knight

Hollie Knight

May 11, 2026, 23:40:50

Right, so poured meself a dram and had a proper nose at it... 🥃 First thing I get is this lovely warm honey and vanilla thing, like walking past a bakery on a cold morning init. Then there's some apple and pear hiding in there too, nice fruity bit 🍐 Had a wee sip and oh my days... the butterscotch just hits you, creamy and smooth like. Bit of cinnamon spice creeping in, not too much though, just enough to keep things interestin. The finish though 🙌 that's where it gets proper good - some gentle smoke and a touch of dark chocolate, lingers on the tongue for ages. Oaky and warm, like sittin by the fireplace on a rainy Sunday. Honestly? Just a lovely easy drinker, the kind of whisky you'd have with a good book and your feet up. Not too complex but feckin' enjoyable tbh 😌 Would absolutely have another glass, no question 👌

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