Ichiro’s Malt Ken’s Choice Copper Double Oak American Style Whisky

Ichiro’s Malt Ken’s Choice Copper Double Oak American Style Whisky
700ml | 58.3% ABV | Non-Chill Filtered | Natural Color | Distillery Exclusive

A New Generation’s Vision

The Ichiro’s Malt Ken’s Choice series marks a passing of the torch at Chichibu Distillery. Consequently, it showcases cask selections by Kenichi “Ken” Akuto, Ichiro’s son and the next guardian of the family legacy. Moreover, this “Copper Double Oak” bottling reflects Ken’s preference for bold, American oak-driven profiles.

Double Oak, Double Depth

This expression blends single malts matured in two types of American oak: ex-Bourbon barrels for sweetness and vanilla, and virgin charred oak for spice and structure. The spirit was distilled in Chichibu’s iconic copper pot stills—hence the “Copper” in the name. In fact, the Ichiro’s Malt Ken’s Choice delivers a rich, layered profile that celebrates American oak’s influence on Japanese whisky.

Bold, Spicy, and Unapologetically Oak-Forward

Bottled at 58.3% ABV, this whisky embraces intensity. As a result, it offers waves of vanilla, caramel, and baking spice, balanced by Chichibu’s signature mineral freshness. Additionally, the use of virgin oak adds notes of cedar and toasted coconut that evolve beautifully in the glass.

Tasting Experience

First, the nose opens with vanilla pod, butterscotch, and cinnamon, layered with toasted oak, orange zest, and a hint of leather. Then, subtle notes of coconut and clove emerge with air.

On the palate, the texture is rich and mouth-coating. Flavors of brown sugar, nutmeg, dark chocolate, and charred wood unfold with confidence. The alcohol integrates well, adding warmth without harshness.

Finally, the finish is long and warming—oak spice, dried apricot, and a whisper of smoke. Altogether, it’s a powerful and modern expression that honors both tradition and innovation.

A Distillery-Exclusive Legacy Bottling

Originally available only at Chichibu Distillery, the Ichiro’s Malt Ken’s Choice is now highly sought after worldwide. Therefore, it represents not just a great whisky—but a historic moment in the Akuto family story. Collectors value this Ichiro’s Malt Ken’s Choice as a symbol of Chichibu’s next chapter.

Discover the Future of Chichibu

If you admire generational craftsmanship like this, explore more in our [Chichibu Family Selections]. You might also enjoy the story of [how Ken Akuto is shaping Chichibu’s future].