Ichiro's Malt Chichibu Distillery II (70cl, 55.5%)

This is Ichiro's Malt Chichibu Distillery II, a Japanese whisky bottled at 55.5% in a 70cl bottle. It is presented as the start of a new chapter in Japan's modern whisky story. The spirit is distilled in direct-fired stills, after fermentation in French oak vessels. It was matured for between four and five years in a selection of casks, mainly ex-bourbon barrels. The nose offers vanilla and caramel with gentle peat smoke and roasted orchard fruits. The palate is velvety and honeyed, with creamy custard, cinnamon and nutmeg. The long finish brings smoky barley and lingering spice.