Ichiro's Malt Chichibu Double Distilleries (70cl, 46.5%)

Chichibu Double Distilleries is a Japanese malt whisky in a 70cl bottle, at 46.5% ABV. It vats whisky from two distilleries, Hanyu and Chichibu. The Hanyu part matured in ex-sherry hogsheads, while the Chichibu part matured in Japanese oak. Hanyu closed in 2004, and Ichiro Akuto, owner of Chichibu, took over its remaining stocks. The nose is fresh and fragrant, with barley malt sweetness, jasmine, pepper and vanilla. Apricot, orange and mango nectar come with citrus peel, alongside menthol, pine, cedar and freshly cut wood. Green tea, ice cream and sesame follow, and the whole is notably floral, with roses and violets.