Chichibu 

This category stands out as a key segment of Japanese whisky. The Chichibu Distillery produces it, and it has quickly earned global recognition for its exceptional quality. Ichiro Akuto founded the distillery in 2008, making it the first new Japanese distillery since 1973. The distillery is known for its meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to craftsmanship.

The use locally sourced ingredients, including malted barley and water from nearby springs. The whiskies also feature a variety of cask types, such as American oak, sherry, and Japanese Mizunara oak. These casks impart unique flavors to the whisky, creating a rich, layered taste. As a result, these whiskies offer a complex, well-balanced profile that combines sweetness, spice, and fruitiness.

The Chichibu single malt

ferments in Mizunara oak vats and distills in small stills. Some variations incorporate local barley and peat, which further enhance its unique flavor.

The Chichibu Ichiro’s Malt & Grain Blended Whisky

blends whiskies from Scotland, Ireland, America, Canada, and Chichibu malt. These whiskies age for 3 to 5 years in their countries of origin before recasking in Chichibu casks for 1 to 3 additional years in Japan. This final maturation deepens the flavors and adds complexity.

Produced in Chichibu, a small town northwest of Tokyo, it has a rich history. Ichiro Akuto founded the distillery in 2004, marking the arrival of Japan’s first new distillery in over 30 years. The distillery is renowned for its traditional whisky-making process and high-quality malted barley.

In addition to whisky, it is famous for hosting the Chichibu Yomatsuri, a vibrant nighttime festival held every December. This event attracts visitors from around the world, adding to the town’s cultural allure.