Ichiro's Malt Double Distilleries Malt

Two Distilleries, Two Generations of Japanese Whisky History
Created by Ichiro Akuto, Ichiro's Malt Double Distilleries brings together single malts from two remarkable Japanese distilleries: Hanyu and Chichibu.

Hanyu Distillery, originally owned by Ichiro Akuto's grandfather, closed in 2000, leaving behind a limited collection of ageing whisky stocks. Ichiro subsequently rescued these remaining casks, preserving an important chapter of Japanese whisky history. They would become the foundation of some of the world's most sought-after Japanese whiskies, including the legendary Ichiro's Malt Card Series.

In 2008, Ichiro opened Chichibu Distillery, one of Japan's first new whisky distilleries in decades. Despite its relatively young history, Chichibu quickly earned international recognition for its exceptional craftsmanship, innovative maturation techniques and limited production.

Double Distilleries unites these two legacies, marrying the mature character of Hanyu's remaining stocks with the vibrant, expressive spirit of Chichibu.

With Hanyu having ceased production more than 25 years ago, original stocks cannot be replenished. Expressions containing genuine Hanyu malt therefore represent an increasingly rare opportunity to experience whisky from this historic distillery.

Cask & Maturation
This limited expression combines carefully selected single malts from two distilleries, each contributing distinctive characteristics through its maturation.
- Chichibu Distillery, Mizunara Oak: Japanese Mizunara oak contributes aromatic complexity, delicate spice and fragrant wood characteristics.
- Hanyu Distillery, Sherry Hogsheads: Sherry cask maturation introduces richness, depth and mature fruit character, complementing Chichibu's aromatic profile.
The marriage of these whiskies creates a balance of sweetness and firmness, bringing together the individual strengths of both distilleries.

Tasting Notes
Nose: Fragrant and slightly floral, with delicate vanilla, warming spices and hints of apricot.
Palate: A harmonious balance of sweetness and structure, with orchard fruit, soft vanilla, gentle oak and aromatic spice.
Finish: Lingering and elegant, with subtle wood spice, delicate fruit sweetness and a refined oak character.