Chichibu Distillery Ichiro’s Malt The Peated Japanese Whisky 700ml (2022 Release)

Description

After a four-year hiatus, it’s finally back! Most of Chichibu’s current production is unpeated, using Norfolk barley. A peated new-make, however, is produced during the last month before maintenance season starts. The previous release was bottled in 2018 for the 10th anniversary of Chichibu, and again, this limited release has been matured in ex-Bourbon barrels for between five and seven years and bottled at cask strength. Ichiro uses malted barley peated to a mighty ‘Ardbeg-level’ 50 ppm, yet the smoke is sweet, pure and wreathed in woodsmoke rather than the more medicinal level of the spectrum. Behind the smoke are nuanced notes of pure citrus oil aromas, custard creams, black tea and vanilla. The palate is about balance and integration and although it’s possible to isolate caramel, wood spice, smoke and saline characters. Sweet and light custard cream, with fruity notes that glide across the surface. The aroma on the palate is reminiscent of soft black tea, and the overall impression will continue to change over time The Finer Details Style – Japanese Whisky Country – Japan Size – 700ml ABV – 53.5%