A distinctive and richly expressive whisky from Japans 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 drinkableideal 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 nonchill-filtered to retain maximum character for the US market. It represents the distillerys dedication to traditional pot-still distillation, Mizunara-oak fermentation vessels and meticulous barrel selection.
Critics Reviews
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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