Chichibu : 8 Year Old Single Cask #7492 Bourbon Barrel 1st Fill Itinéraires Collection 2017

Characteristics and tasting advice for Chichibu 8 Year Old Single Cask #7492 Bourbon Barrel 1st Fill Itinéraires Collection 2017

Tasting

Nose
The aromatic profile reveals a fresh and deep expression. On opening, a malty, citrus-led sequence is joined by dominant fresh fruits: apple, pear, and grape. Subtle almond aromas mingle with notes of linden honey and wax, while fresh vanilla and toasted oak harmoniously complete this aromatic bouquet.

Palate
The attack unfolds on a remarkably precise vanilla and malty structure. Tropical fruits form the heart of the flavor profile with notes of pineapple, banana, and yellow kiwi. Fine spices emerge with touches of ginger and nutmeg, bringing a spicy dimension to this rich and vibrant ensemble.

Pairings and tasting moments

This whisky is best enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity. Given its high alcohol strength of 64.3%, adding a few drops of water can help release more aromas and soften the intensity on the palate.

An exceptional Japanese single malt from the Chichibu distillery

Chichibu, an artisanal distillery in Saitama

Founded in 2008 by Ichiro Akuto, who still leads it, Chichibu embodies the excellence of artisanal Japanese whisky. Located in Saitama Prefecture on the island of Honshū, the distillery works with small capacities using custom-made Forsyth pot stills and practices floor malting. It sources, among other things, local barley, in a bid to reinforce the Japanese identity of its single malts. Chichibu has established itself as a benchmark for unpeated whisky, renowned for its aromatic finesse, fresh fruitiness, and spicy complexity.

A cask strength limited edition from the Itinéraires collection

Chichibu 8 Year Old Single Cask #7492 Bourbon Barrel 1st Fill Itinéraires Collection 2017 is an exceptional release, limited to only 171 bottles. Distilled in 2017, this single malt matured for 8 years in a single first-fill bourbon cask, embodying the distillery’s innovative and artisanal spirit.

Production follows a rigorous process, with distillation in small Forsyths pot stills custom-ordered in Scotland. Bottled at cask strength at 64.3% ABV, without chill filtration or added coloring, it preserves the spirit’s original integrity and full aromatic power.

This expression is part of the "In the Wake of Silence" collection, illustrating the excellence of contemporary Japanese craftsmanship. The choice of a first-fill bourbon cask imparts characteristic notes of vanilla, tropical fruits, and sweet spices, while respecting the freshness and finesse inherent to the Chichibu style.