Ichiro’s Malt Chichibu Distillery II marks a bold new chapter in Japan’s modern whisky story.

Distillation at Chichibu takes place in direct-fired stills, with fermentation carried out in French oak vessels, resulting in a distinctive depth and texture. This liquid was matured for between four and five years in a selection of casks, primarily ex-bourbon barrels, and captures the character and promise of the new distillery’s house style. Bottled at a robust 55.5% ABV, it delivers a beautifully rich and complex dram.

The nose opens with sweet notes of vanilla and caramel, laced with gentle peat smoke and roasted orchard fruits. On the palate, it’s velvety and honeyed, with layers of creamy custard, warming cinnamon and nutmeg, leading into a long finish defined by smoky barley and lingering spice.