Hanyu 2000 - 2012 Chibidaru Cask #346

The Hanyu 2000 - 2012 Chibidaru Cask #346, bottled exclusively for La Maison du Whisky, is a true treasure from the legendary Hanyu Distillery. Distilled in 2000, before the distillery closed its doors, and bottled in 2012, this whisky spent 12 years maturing in a Chibidaru cask, a smaller barrel designed to intensify the interaction between the wood and the spirit. As part of a rare bottling, this expression highlights Hanyu’s innovative spirit and craftsmanship. This whisky is not only a flavor experience but also a piece of Japanese whisky history.

Tasting note

Nose

The nose reveals rich notes of butterscotch, honey, and caramel, accompanied by fruity accents of ripe peach and dried apricot. Subtle hints of cinnamon, clove, and sandalwood add a spicy warmth, while a touch of roasted almonds and lemon zest provides a refreshing edge.

Palate

On the palate, the whisky is silky and full-bodied. Notes of vanilla, toffee, and apricot jam are beautifully balanced by a delicate spiciness of white pepper and nutmeg. The Chibidaru cask influence introduces a gentle oak structure, with hints of tropical fruit like pineapple and a touch of citrus zest.

Finish

The finish is long and harmonious, with lingering sweetness of honey and vanilla. A soft woody spiciness lingers, along with a light mineral note and a refreshing hint of orange zest, delivering an elegant conclusion.

Hanyu Distillery

The Hanyu Distillery, located in Japan’s Saitama Prefecture, was founded in 1941 by Isouji Akuto, a descendant of a family with a long history in sake production. Initially, the distillery produced sake and shochu, but in the 1980s, Hanyu began distilling malt whisky, drawing inspiration from the Scottish whisky tradition. The distillery employed classic methods, such as copper pot stills and maturation in a variety of casks, including sherry, bourbon, and Japanese Mizunara oak.

Unfortunately, the distillery was closed in 2000 due to economic difficulties, but Hanyu’s legacy was preserved by Ichiro Akuto, the founder’s grandson. He rescued several casks from the distillery and created legendary releases, including the iconic Ichiro’s Malt Card Series. Today, Hanyu whiskies are extremely rare and celebrated worldwide for their exceptional quality and complexity.