Chichibu II Inaugural Release

Ichiro’s Malt Chichibu Distillery II Japanese Single Malt Whisky is the first release from the new Chichibu Distillery II in Saitama, Japan. This bright and complex release offers a glimpse into the signature style of the new distillery.

Ichiro’s Malt Chichibu Distillery II marks a new chapter in Japanese whisky. Aged for between four to five years in a range of casks, predominantly bourbon barrels, the liquid is then distilled using direct fired wash stills to create a richer and more full-bodied style of whisky in comparison to Chichibu I.

Chichibu Distillery II, located 100km from Tokyo in Saitama prefecture, was set up by Ichiro Akuto and began distilling in 2019. It follows on from the success of the original Chichibu distillery located in the same town. Chichibu II is a larger distillery and differs in the production style in various ways, the most notable being the direct-fired spirit still and French oak fermentation vessels. The attention to detail and quality craftsmanship that has become synonymous with Ichiro Akuto however remains. The whiskies produced at the two Chichibu Distilleries are incredibly elegant and sophisticated, reflecting the quality and expertise imparted to the spirit.

Chichibu/Speciality Brands