Chichibu – Ichiro's Malt Double Distilleries (46.5%)

Ichiro's Malt Double Distilleries is a Japanese pure malt, a vatting made only of single malts from casks of the Hanyu and Chichibu distilleries. It is bottled at 46.5% ABV. Maturation in Japanese oak casks gives it a vanilla sweetness, while the fruity, spicy character probably comes from the ex-sherry and hogshead casks of Hanyu. The nose is fruity, with berries and quince, plum jam, cinnamon and aniseed, and a hint of grain. The palate is spicy and complex, with autumn fruits such as pears and plums, a summer alpine meadow and a touch of ginger. The finish is long and fruity, ending sweet and spicy.