Ichiro’s Malt Chichibu “The Peated” 2018 – 10th Anniversary

Ichiro’s Malt Chichibu “The Peated” 2018 – 10th Anniversary Japanese Single Malt Whisky
700ml | 61.2% ABV | Non-Chill Filtered | Natural Color | Limited Anniversary Release

Celebrating a Decade of Innovation

The Ichiro’s Malt The Peated 2018 was bottled to mark Chichibu Distillery’s 10th anniversary—a milestone in Japan’s modern whisky renaissance. Consequently, it honors a decade of bold experimentation and global acclaim. Moreover, this release reaffirms Chichibu’s mastery of peated malt, now refined through years of experience.

Matured with Milestone Intent

Distilled from lightly peated barley and matured in ex-Bourbon casks at Chichibu’s Saitama mountain distillery, this spirit was selected for its balance and intensity. Bottled at 61.2% ABV, it captures the distillery’s evolved house style—smoky yet vibrant, powerful yet precise. In fact, the Ichiro’s Malt The Peated 2018 reflects how far Chichibu has come since its warehouse beginnings.

Refined Smoke, Enhanced Complexity

Compared to earlier peated releases, this 2018 bottling shows greater integration of smoke and fruit. As a result, citrus and spice shine through the peat with remarkable clarity. Additionally, the cool, humid climate of the distillery’s mountain home allows for slower maturation—adding depth without oak dominance.

Tasting Experience

First, the nose reveals wood smoke, lemon oil, and sea salt, followed by vanilla, white pepper, and a hint of green tea. Then, subtle floral and mineral notes emerge with air.

On the palate, the texture is oily and dynamic. Flavors of smoked grapefruit, honey, clove, and charred oak unfold with energy. The high strength feels harmonious, not hot.

Finally, the finish is long and layered—ash, dried herbs, kumquat, and a whisper of brine. Altogether, it’s a mature and confident expression of Japanese peated whisky.

A Collector’s Anniversary Treasure

Released in limited quantities with special anniversary labeling, the Ichiro’s Malt The Peated 2018 is a must-have for Chichibu completists. Therefore, it holds both historical and investment value. Many consider this Ichiro’s Malt The Peated the most balanced peated bottling of Chichibu’s first decade.

Explore Chichibu’s Legacy

If you admire milestone releases like this, discover more in our [Chichibu 10th Anniversary Collection]. You might also enjoy the story of [how Chichibu became a global whisky icon in just 10 years].