Securing a dram of Ichiro’s Malt 2011 Chichibu Port Pipe Single Cask Bottled 2016 is akin to winning the golden ticket. This incredibly rare release from the Chichibu distillery, the brainchild of whisky wunderkind Ichiro Akuto, is a testament to his ability to craft complex and intriguing spirits at a remarkably young age. Part of a minuscule 618-bottle run, this single malt boasts a unique journey, maturing first in oak casks before spending crucial time in massive Port Pipes. The result is an almost pink-hued elixir that explodes with fruity aromas and a vibrant palate of citrus and fruit, all wrapped up in a surprisingly light yet complex body and a honeyed finish. I had the fortunate opportunity to savor a glass, and here’s what I discovered.

Hard to Find – Price Range: $1,499- $4,550

Tasting Notes

Appearance

Color: A captivating light amber and ruby hue reminiscent of a sunset over Mount Fuji.

Legs: Thick, slow-moving tears cling to the glass.

Nose

Aromas: The initial nosing reveals a bouquet of peaches with a syrupy rum flair, spicey clove, and hot pepper – mingling with custard. As it opens up, secondary notes of toasted oak and vanilla emerge, followed by tertiary aromas of tobacco and a whisper of incense.

Complexity: The nose is a harmonious blend of fruit-forward notes and deeper, more complex aromas, creating an intriguing and well-balanced olfactory experience.

Palate

First Sip: A velvety smoothness coats the palate, delivering an initial burst of dark fruits – think plums and blackberries – followed by a gentle spiciness.

Development: The fruity sweetness evolves into a more complex profile, a touch of strawberry wine, allusions of raw barely, crusty bread with leafier hints of tobacco and a touch of umami emerging. With a sip of water, things really evolve: pine notes, tree sap, black tea, very earthy undercurrents, wow – even more depth to uncover. 

Complexity: This whisky showcases remarkable depth and intrigue, luring me in for another sip. The port pipe influence is evident but not overpowering, allowing the intrinsic character of the Chichibu spirit to shine through. 

Finish

Length: Impressively long, bitter, and sweet like sourdough.

Flavors: The finish brings forth a subtle smokiness, but it really pulls itself together with a sip of water, delivering a second wave of pine tree sap, elderflower, and hawthorn—what an unexpected but welcome complexity.

Overall Impression

Ichiro’s Malt 2011 Chichibu Port Pipe Single Cask is a masterful demonstration of what happens when traditional Japanese whisky-making techniques join in marriage with the fruity influence of port pipe maturation, resulting in an innovative cask selection. It offers a complex, nuanced drinking experience that evolves beautifully from nose to finish. The port pipe influence adds a luscious fruitiness that complements, rather than overwhelms, the underlying whisky character.

Conclusion and Recommendation

For both Japanese whisky enthusiasts and curious spirit explorers, this Chichibu expression is a must-try. Its very limited availability and unique profile make it more of a special occasion pour—if you are lucky enough to find it.

Have you had the opportunity to sample this exquisite Chichibu Port Pipe expression? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments.