3 Rare Chichibu Whiskies to Own Now
In the world of Japanese spirits, Chichibu whiskies are some of the rarest and most sought-after bottles in the world. The man behind it all is master distiller Ichiro Akuto, who comes from a long line of alcohol producers and whose grandfather established the now-shuttered Hanyu Distillery.
The family distillery gave him access to a selection of rarest stocks, which he used to build Chichibu Distillery. With great skill, knowledge and passion, he and his small team of whisky makers continue to produce top-notch and perfectly aged spirits that are coveted the world over for their Scottish influenced flavours.
Made in extreme small batches, new releases and rare bottlings are quickly snapped up by connoisseurs and collectors when they become available in the market.
Trying to get your hands on these? Fret not for The Tatler Bar is offering three of its deluxe offerings.
Chichibu The Whisky Exchange 20th Aniv. Cask #2089
The single cask peated spirit, distilled in 2012, was released to celebrate The Whisky Exchange's 20th anniversary in 2019. It bears the distillery's signature smokiness, softened by notes of olive brine, menthol and lemon peel. Every sip leaves the palate with a sweet and tangy finish from the infusion of barbecue and plum sauce ingredients.
Chichibu Malt & Grain Cask #7256
This limited-edition Ichiro Malt bottle was released in 2020 at the Chichibu Whisky Matsuri Festival. Matured in a single cask, the golden liquid is a burst of fruity notes and spicy flavours that leaves the palate with a medley of citrus, sweet cream and roasted chestnut characters. Available in extremely limited quantities, as there were only 293 bottles produced.
Chichibu Malt Dream Cask #211
This single cask Ichiro Malt whisky was distilled in 2008, matured in a bourbon barrel for almost 11 years, and bottled in 2019. The polished oak finish has enriched the liquid with vanilla and caramelised flavours. A number of connoisseurs have mentioned that this whisky is one of the most unforgettable experiences they have encountered amongst the many they have tried before. A true collector's dream bottle, as Chichibu only produced 177 bottles of this blend in the world.