Chichibu – The First Ten (70cl, 50.5%)

Chichibu The First Ten is a Japanese whisky blended from about twenty-six casks, every one of which had matured for more than ten years. Most were first-fill bourbon casks, with some mizunara and sherry casks alongside, and a small share of peated whisky is included. It was bottled in 2020 at 50.5% ABV, in a run of 5,000 bottles. The nose offers honey, rich fruit, vanilla and a hint of smoke. The palate is fresh, with green fruit, honey and light peat that adds depth. The finish is long and intense.