The Chichibu (Ichiro) Single Malt Port Pipe 2009-2013 is a highly sought-after, limited-edition Japanese whisky. Distilled in 2009, it was initially matured in quarter casks before a final finishing period in former Port wine pipes. Bottled in 2013 at 54.5% ABV, the release yielded just 4,200 bottles.
Characterized by a deep ruby-amber color, this highly collectible expression is known for a rich, fruity profile.
- Age: 4 years (a rare vintage from the early days of the Chichibu distillery)
- ABV: 54.5% (bottled at cask strength)
Double cask aging process
The most distinctive feature of this whisky is its unique cask aging technique:
- The first three years: The spirit is first aged in small 50-liter quarter-casks (Bourbon barrels), allowing for a high degree of contact between the spirit and the wood, accelerating flavor development.
- The final year: The spirit is then moved to large 500-liter European oak port pipe casks for final aging and finishing. These port casks originate from empty port barrels shipped to Japan; this aging process imparts a deep, jewel-like amber color to the spirit.
Flavor Profile
Having been aged in Port casks, this wine exhibits a very rich and mature sweet character:
- Aroma: Intense aromas of dark berries, ripe plums, and dark chocolate, with elegant hints of oak and spice.
- Palmistry: Full-bodied and rich in oil, bursting with intense red fruit sweetness (such as cherry and raisins), followed by subtle sweet tannins from chocolate and port.
- Finish: Long finish with notes of cinnamon, woody spice, and a hint of dried fruit sweetness.
