Chichibu Ichiro's Double Distilleries Batch #122

Ichiro's Double Distilleries is a unique blend that combines the best of two legendary Japanese distilleries: Chichibu Distillery and the now closed Hanyu Distillery more than 20 years ago. This special blended whisky is a tribute to the rich history of the Akuto family.

Tasting note

Nose

The nose opens with an enticing mix of ripe fruits such as apple and pear, complemented by honeyed aromas and hints of vanilla. Floral notes of honeysuckle and rose petals add an elegant dimension. The influence of Chichibu's Mizunara oak casks is evident with subtle hints of sandalwood and incense. From Hanyu come rich, deeper notes of dried fruits like figs and sultanas, combined with hints of dark chocolate and spices.

Taste

A rich and complex flavour reveals itself at the first sip. Notes of juicy pears and apples mingle with layers of caramel and toffee, creating a sweet and creamy texture. The midpalate is dominated by spicy accents such as cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of pepper. Hanyu distillery influence adds depth with notes of dried fruit and a slight smokiness, while Chichibu's floral and fruity character continues to shine through.

Finish

The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of sweet spices and a gentle smokiness that slowly fades. The exotic touch of Mizunara oak offers hints of sandalwood and incense, while a delicate nuttiness and a hint of leather round out the flavour. The rich and layered finish lingers, leaving each sip with a lingering and refined impression.

Overall impression

Chichibu Ichiro's Double Distilleries is an exceptionally balanced whisky that offers a harmonious blend of sweetness, spiciness and woody complexity. The influence of Mizunara oak and the rich, deep notes of Hanyu Distillery come together beautifully with the fresh, fruity character of Chichibu, making this blend a real treat for aficionados and an excellent choice for special occasions.

Chichibu Distillery

Chichibu Distillery is located in the mountainous region of Saitama, Japan, about 100 kilometres northwest of Tokyo. Founded in 2008 by Ichiro Akuto, a leading figure in the Japanese whisky world, Chichibu has quickly established itself as a leading distillery.

A unique feature of Chichibu is its focus on artisan production and small-scale approach. The distillery uses locally grown barley and water from the nearby Arakawa River, which contributes to the purity and character of their whiskies. Chichibu is known for its complex and balanced flavour profiles, with notes of vanilla, fruit, spices and a subtle hint of smoke.

Chichibu matures its whiskies in a variety of casks, including ex-bourbon, sherry, and Japanese mizunara oak casks, creating a unique and layered flavour experience. The distillery is renowned for its craftsmanship and dedication to quality, as evidenced by the international recognition and awards their whiskies have received.

Visitors to Chichibu Distillery can participate in tours and tastings, experiencing the passion and craftsmanship behind these special Japanese whiskies. The combination of traditional techniques, innovative maturation and a beautiful location makes Chichibu a respected name in the world of whisky.