Ichiro’s Malt Chichibu On The Way is a limited edition single malt Japanese whisky produced by Chichibu Distillery in Saitama, Japan. It is distilled from 100% unpeated malted barley, with each release bottled at a different proof.
More lively upfront, with a deliciously fruity entry. This progresses in a much more stately fashion than The First. Whereas the former whisky immediately gripped the tongue, this one builds more slowly to achieve the same mouth coating effect in the end. Again, this is an intensely textural whisky.
The taste is dry, astringent, and very spicy with white pepper, coriander, and chili powder balanced by notes of butterscotch, honey, banana, and coconut underneath. The balance is excellent, and the spices last forever, but do reveal a touch of dark chocolate as they start to fade.
A hint of mint is detected for a moment, before the spices sweeten and escalate, leading to a long, warm finish. On the way, but with this, you've arrived
Incredibly fruity with plenty of body, the initial apple, pear, and spike of pepper are overtaken by golden syrup, vanilla, pastry, candied fruits, and fruity desserts. Stick with cask strength: Water releases gooseberry sharpness and quells the spices.
