Description
A distinctive and richly expressive whisky from Japan’s craft powerhouse, this US-exclusive edition offers bold strength (53.5% ABV) and a refined, fruit-driven profile that exemplifies the depth and elegance of Japanese single malt. It is both collectible and highly drinkable—ideal for the enthusiast seeking something special.
Origins & Craftsmanship
From the renowned Chichibu Distillery in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, this “US Edition” release is drawn from a select assembly of barrels — including new American oak, first-fill hogsheads and carefully chosen casks — distillate matured at craft scale. The result is a single malt bottled at 53.5% ABV and non–chill-filtered to retain maximum character for the US market. It represents the distillery’s dedication to traditional pot-still distillation, Mizunara-oak fermentation vessels and meticulous barrel selection.
Critics Reviews
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Jonny McCormick of Whisky Advocate rated the release 92 points, praising its “abundant, generous nose of baked fruit — peach, dried apricot, orange — and polished wood; on the palate apple, peach, barley sugar, sweet vanilla, pepper and clove build into a finish of peach cobbler.”
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A tasting blogger at Diving for Pearls described it as “classic Chichibu but dialled up: toasted barley, tropical guava and kiwi acidity, orange candy sweetness, and a peppery yet sweet finish with limed-green highlights.” The review gave a numeric rating of 88 points.
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Enthusiast commentary observes this edition as “the house style matured for collectors and serious drinkers alike — more oak underlying than prior editions, yet the hallmark fruit and barley-grain spirit remain very much in focus.”
Tasting Profile
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Nose: Pop of toasted barley, ripe kiwi and guava, crisp green apple, candied orange peel, light vanilla and delicate rose petal on a clean oak foundation.
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Palate: Medium-full body: tropical fruit (guava, pineapple) leads, followed by baked pear, nutmeg, dark cocoa, fresh ginger and peppery spice. Tropical and orchard fruits intertwine with polished malt and wood.
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Finish: Long, warming and layered: maraschino cherry, lime zest, gentle oak tannin, subtle peat smoke and a final flourish of toasted almond.
Quick Overview
| ABV / Proof | Origin / Region | Production / Base Type | Aging / Maturation | Aromas & Flavors | Style / Identity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 53.5% ABV | Saitama Prefecture, Japan | Japanese single malt (100% malted barley) | Blend of selected barrels; US-exclusive edition | Kiwi, guava, orange candy, toasted barley, pepper, oak | Premium Japanese single malt; limited US edition; craft prestige |
Reviews
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