Ichiros Malt Mizunara Wood Reserve Malt Whisky 700ml 46% Alc

Mizunara wood is an oak that was used extensively in Japanese whisky production for the first time during the second world war when American and European oak barrels were hard to obtain. During this initial stage it was thought that Mizunara wood was not suitable for whisky because it left such a strong oaky taste, the wood also provided practical problems like its high moisture content and wavy growing shape.  The key turned out to be leaving the whisky in the barrels for a much longer period than previously thought so the Mizunara wood could impart the right kind of flavour.   That right kind of amroma is now highly sort after displaying sandlewood and coconut notes. Ichiro Akuto has found that amazing flavour and this whisky is one of the finnest testaments to the desirable complexity Mizunara wood can impart on a whisky. As well as maturing in casks with Mizunara wood heads the fermentation process is uniquely done using Mizunara wood as well. 

This whisky is a vatting of different Mizunara casks all of varying ages produced at Chichibu distillery. It is then vatted together and bottled at Chichibu distillery none-filtered.

Nose: Gentle Mizunara, soft grass and cigar box notes. Hints of grapefruit, apples, coconut with honey and toasty wood notes.

Palate: Rich and spicy with toffee apples, sweet baking spices and orchard fruits.

Finish: Sweet medium finish with soft spices.

Chichibu Distillery: A Japanese Whisky Distillery with a History

Chichibu Distillery is a Japanese whisky distillery located in the town of Chichibu in Saitama Prefecture. The distillery was founded in 2004 by Ichiro Akuto, the grandson of the founder of the Hanyu Distillery.

The Chichibu Distillery is one of the smallest distilleries in Japan, and it produces a small quantity of single malt whisky each year. The distillery is known for its use of traditional methods and its focus on quality.

The water used in the production of Chichibu whiskies comes from the Chichibu River, which is said to have a high mineral content. The distillery also uses peated barley in some of its whiskies, which gives them a smoky flavor.

Chichibu whiskies are highly regarded by whisky enthusiasts, and they have won numerous awards at international whisky competitions. The distillery is a popular tourist destination, and it offers tours and tastings to the public. Its essential to book a visit prior to arrival.