CHICHIBU 2014 64,3% SINGLE BOURBON 2ND EX PEATED CASK #3812 | LMDW

The Chichibu 2014 Single Bourbon 2nd Ex Peated Cask #3812, bottled at a commanding 64.3% ABV, is a stunning representation of the innovation and craftsmanship of the Chichibu distillery. This limited edition, with only 188 bottles produced, makes it an incredibly exclusive offering from one of Japan's youngest and most exciting distilleries. It is bottled in a standard 70 cl size which showcases the essence of the spirit wonderfully.

Chichibu Distillery, established in 2008 by Ichiro Akuto, a legend in the world of Japanese whisky, is located in the town of Chichibu, near Tokyo. Despite its relative youth, Chichibu has rapidly become renowned for its meticulous methods and innovative approach in whisky production. The distillery’s unique settings, surrounded by mountains and with a significant temperature difference between seasons, significantly influences the maturation process of the whisky.

This particular expression, distilled in 2014, underwent aging in a second-ex-peated bourbon cask. The choice of a second use ex-peated cask is quite intriguing and not very common in whisky production. Originally used for peated whiskies, these casks impart subtle phenolic flavors and deepen the complexity without overwhelming the more delicate nuances of the bourbon cask. The result is a layered and complex whisky with gentle smoked undertones beautifully intertwined with the traditional sweet and creamy characteristics of bourbon-aged spirits.

The selection of Cask #3812 for this bottling underscores Chichibu’s commitment to individuality in its cask selection. Each cask imparts its unique characteristics to the whisky, influenced by its prior contents, wood type, and the microclimatic conditions of its storage location within the warehouse. Cask #3812 has evidently contributed a distinctive character that caught the discerning eyes (and palates) of the Chichibu team.

Presented by the official bottler, this release maintains the brand's authenticity and commitment to quality with no third-party influences on bottling standards, ensuring that aficionados experience the whisky as intended by the distillery itself. Given its extremely limited bottle count, this expression represents a unique collector’s item as well as an exceptional tasting experience for those lucky enough to acquire a bottle.

As this whisky is sold under the La Maison du Whisky (LMDW) banner, it benefits from being associated with one of the most prestigious liquor retailers in the world. Known for their stringent selection process and dedication to quality, LMDW's involvement guarantees an additional layer of quality assurance to this rare find.

The strong cask strength of 64.3% is particularly appealing to purists who prefer to experience their whisky as directly as possible from cask to glass, offering the opportunity to taste the pure distillate with minimal dilution, though it also allows for personalization. Adding water can open up more nuances of the flavor profile, which includes potential notes of smoked vanilla, peat-infused caramel, and hints of fruit and spice lingering from the bourbon heritage.

In summary, the Chichibu 2014 64.3% Single Bourbon 2nd Ex Peated Cask #3812 is a testament to the innovative spirit of Chichibu, combining traditional and unexpected elements in its aging process to create a sophisticated, multidimensional flavor profile. This exquisite whisky not only mirrors the meticulous craft of its creators but also represents a bridge between the classic and contemporary styles, catering to both traditionalists and explorers in the whisky world.