Ichiro’s Malt Cask Strength 23 Year Old Whisky

Ichiro’s Malt Cask Strength 23 Year Japanese Single Malt Whisky
700ml | 57.8% ABV | Non-Chill Filtered | Natural Color | Limited Release

A Landmark in Japanese Whisky History

The Ichiro’s Malt 23 Year represents one of the oldest and most revered expressions ever released by Chichibu Distillery. Consequently, it honors Ichiro Akuto’s dedication to preserving Japan’s whisky legacy. Moreover, this bottling includes spirit distilled before the distillery even existed—making it a true piece of liquid history.

Forged from Pre-Chichibu Heritage Stock

In the early 2000s, after the closure of the Hanyu Distillery (founded by Ichiro’s grandfather), Ichiro saved over 400 casks of maturing whisky. He later founded Chichibu to shepherd these “orphan casks” to maturity. The Ichiro’s Malt 23 Year comes from this legendary Hanyu stock. In fact, every drop was distilled in 2000 and carefully matured for over two decades under Ichiro’s watchful eye.

Mature, Complex, and Perfectly Balanced

Despite its age and high strength, this 57.8% ABV whisky delivers remarkable harmony. As a result, it avoids oak dominance and instead showcases deep fruit, spice, and subtle rancio notes. Additionally, the long maturation in traditional dunnage warehouses allowed slow, graceful oxidation—enhancing its depth without overpowering its soul.

Tasting Experience

First, the nose reveals dried figs, dates, and orange marmalade, layered with polished oak, leather, and a hint of sandalwood. Then, delicate notes of tobacco leaf and beeswax emerge with time.

On the palate, the texture is rich and silky. Flavors of prune, dark chocolate, cinnamon, and clove unfold with elegance. The alcohol integrates seamlessly, adding warmth but never heat.

Finally, the finish is exceptionally long and contemplative—dried apricot, walnut, old library books, and a whisper of smoke. Altogether, it’s a profound and moving whisky that speaks of patience, legacy, and mastery.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Bottle

Only a handful of casks from the original Hanyu stock remain. Therefore, the Ichiro’s Malt 23 Year is among the rarest Japanese whiskies available today. Each bottle is individually numbered and presented in a premium wooden box—making it a centerpiece for any serious collection. For connoisseurs, owning an Ichiro’s Malt 23 Year is like holding a chapter of Japan’s whisky renaissance in your hands. Many consider this Ichiro’s Malt 23 Year the pinnacle of Japanese aged malt.

Discover More Heritage Bottlings

If you value historic Japanese malts like this, explore our [Rare Japanese Whisky Collection]. You might also enjoy the full story of [how Ichiro saved Hanyu’s casks and revived a legacy].