Chichibu The Peated 10th Anniversary 2018 55.5% 2013

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (86)

BOW (90)

A Whisky of Youthful Brilliance

Despite its young age, Chichibu distillery has quickly garnered a reputation for producing exceptional whiskies that showcase maturity beyond their years. The Peated 10th Anniversary edition is a shining example of this.

In 2007, Ichiro Akuto, the grandson of the founder of the now-closed Hanyu distillery, embarked on a new whisky venture in Chichibu city, located 100 kilometers northwest of Tokyo. Drawing upon the accumulated expertise passed down from his grandfather, Ichiro has been able to create remarkably complex whiskies despite their relatively short maturation periods.

Released in 2018, The Peated 10th Anniversary edition commemorates a decade since the distillery's establishment. Bottled at a robust 55.5% ABV, this expression delivers a bold and intense flavor profile that is sure to captivate whisky enthusiasts.

The character of The Peated is derived from the peat used during the malting process, imparting a distinct smoky and earthy quality to the spirit. Remarkably, despite its youth, The Peated exhibits a surprising depth of complexity, revealing layers of flavors and aromas that unfold with each sip.

On the nose, one is greeted with enticing notes of campfire smoke, roasted nuts, and a subtle hint of citrus. The palate unveils a rich and full-bodied texture, accompanied by flavors of charred oak, peat smoke, and a delicate sweetness that harmoniously balances the overall profile. The finish is long-lasting, leaving a gentle warmth that lingers on the palate.

Chichibu whiskies are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the highest quality at every step of the production process. From selecting the finest ingredients to carefully maturing the spirit in handpicked casks, every aspect is executed with precision, showcasing the distillery's commitment to craftsmanship.

As a young distillery, Chichibu continues to push the boundaries and refine its techniques, demonstrating the immense potential within the realm of whisky. The Peated 10th Anniversary edition is a testament to their dedication and passion, encapsulating the spirit of Chichibu.

Highly sought after by whisky enthusiasts and collectors alike, The Peated 10th Anniversary edition is prized for its limited availability and exceptional quality. Whether savored as a special occasion dram or treasured within a whisky collection, this expression from Chichibu offers a glimpse into the bright future of Japanese whisky.

Chichibu may be young, but it has swiftly emerged as a formidable player in the whisky world. The Peated 10th Anniversary edition exemplifies the distillery's skill, ambition, and showcases the tremendous potential of this rising star in Japanese whisky.