Chichibu 2011 - 2018 #4548 Belgian Stout Cask Finish

Nose

The nose opens with a luscious mix of roasted malt and dark chocolate, complemented by hints of coffee and caramel. Subtle notes of vanilla and dried fruits such as sultanas and figs add sweet complexity.

Taste

A rich, full-bodied flavour reveals itself at the first sip. Tones of dark chocolate and espresso mingle with sweet caramel and toffee. The midpalate offers a refined balance of bitter and sweet elements, with nuances of roasted nuts and a hint of smoke.

Finish

The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of cocoa, coffee and a slight bitterness reminiscent of a fine stout. The complexity of the whisky lingers, leaving a lasting impression with every sip.

Chichibu Distillery was established by Ichiro Akuto in Japan’s Saitama Prefecture in 2007 and began distilling in 2008. Akuto comes from a family with a long tradition in sake and whisky. After the family-owned Hanyu Distillery closed, he founded Venture Whisky in 2004 to preserve its remaining casks and release them under the Ichiro’s Malt name. Chichibu allowed him to continue that history in a new form.

The first single malt produced at Chichibu appeared in 2011. The small distillery subsequently developed into one of the most influential names in modern Japanese whisky. A second production site began distilling in 2019, creating additional stocks for future maturation.

Chichibu combines Scottish-inspired copper pot stills with distinctly Japanese elements. Its washbacks are made from mizunara oak, while local barley, floor malting and casks from the company’s own cooperage are used on a small scale. Bourbon, sherry, wine and Japanese oak casks create a wide variety of styles, ranging from fruity and spicy to rich or smoky. Small-scale production and constant experimentation have made Chichibu especially desirable among whisky enthusiasts and collectors.