Chichibu Distillery II Single Malt Japanese Whisky

Ichiro Akuto's second act definitively proves that scaling production doesn't demand sacrificing soul. Built near the original site, it boldly implements French oak washbacks and direct-fired copper stills to steer their iconic house style. The liquid inside feels absolutely electric! This inaugural release weaves mechanical upgrades with meticulous craftsmanship, resting inside ex-bourbon casks to forge an undeniably vibrant and multifaceted profile.

Expectations for this momentous sequel reached fever pitch, yet the resulting distillate unequivocally exceeds them. A judicious pinch of heavily peated barley counterbalances their signature fruit-forward exuberance, orchestrating a brilliantly intricate sipping experience that commands undivided sensory attention. It drinks with phenomenal, staggering maturity. By intentionally bypassing chill filtration and bottling at a robust 111 proof, the blenders flawlessly preserve every singular layer of intricate baking spice.

• Distilled from 100% malted barley with a judicious inclusion of heavily peated malt
• Fermented in French oak washbacks and double-distilled using direct-fired Forsyth copper pot stills
• Matured predominantly in ex-bourbon casks before being bottled entirely without chill filtration

Nose: Vibrant green apple and sweet barley interlock with an earthy wisp of gentle peat smoke, while subtle undercurrents of vanilla bean quietly build complexity.

Palate: Viscous and decidedly honeyed across the tongue, pushing bright lemon zest and ripe stone fruit directly into a dense core of intricate baking spices.

Finish: Lingering and remarkably clean, carrying a soft cascade of ashy smoke, sweet cereal grains, and a final, fleeting surge of pristine white peach.

The vibrant orchard fruit and delicate smoke underpinning this exceptional Japanese single malt perfectly elevate the savory depth of seared duck breast drizzled with a subtle plum reduction. The rich canvas of the poultry seamlessly absorbs the robust proof, while tart pan juices effortlessly echo the bright green apple hidden deep within the dram. Alternatively, fatty tuna sashimi provides an exquisite oceanic contrast that allows the sweeter honey and vanilla elements to take center stage.