The Essence of Suntory Whisky – Chita 4 Year Finish 2018

The Essence of Suntory Whisky – Chita 4 Year Finish 2018 Japanese Grain Whisky
700ml | 48% ABV | Non-Chill Filtered | Natural Color | Distillery Exclusive

A Rare Spotlight on Chita

The Suntory Chita 4 Year 2018 is part of Suntory’s prestigious “The Essence of Suntory Whisky” series—a collector’s trio that celebrates the unique soul of each Suntory distillery. Consequently, this bottling gives rare center stage to Chita, Suntory’s coastal grain whisky distillery. Moreover, it reveals the elegance and complexity that fine Japanese grain whisky can achieve.

Crafted on Osaka Bay

Located on the shores of Osaka Bay, Chita Distillery uses continuous column stills to produce smooth, refined grain spirit. For this release, Suntory selected a parcel matured for 4 years in specialty casks—likely Spanish oak or wine-seasoned barrels—to enhance depth and spice. In fact, the Suntory Chita 4 Year showcases how grain whisky can be both delicate and deeply flavorful.

Refined, Balanced, and Surprisingly Complex

Bottled at 48% ABV, this expression offers remarkable poise. As a result, it balances sweet cereal notes with oak-driven spice and subtle fruit. Additionally, Chita’s maritime location imparts a gentle salinity that lifts the entire profile.

Tasting Experience

First, the nose reveals butterscotch, vanilla, and toasted coconut, layered with cinnamon, dried apricot, and a hint of sea breeze. Then, delicate floral and nutty notes emerge with air.

On the palate, the texture is silky and smooth. Flavors of caramel, almond, clove, and soft oak unfold with grace. The moderate strength ensures approachability without sacrificing character.

Finally, the finish is clean and lingering—honey, white pepper, and a whisper of brine. Altogether, it’s a sophisticated and underappreciated gem that redefines grain whisky.

A Coveted Distillery Exclusive

Originally sold only at Chita Distillery and select Japanese retailers, the Suntory Chita 4 Year 2018 is now extremely rare outside Japan. Therefore, it’s highly prized by Suntory completists and grain whisky enthusiasts alike. Owning this Suntory Chita 4 Year means owning a piece of Suntory’s educational—and collectible—legacy.

Explore Suntory’s Trinity

If you value distillery-focused releases like this, discover the full set in our [Suntory Distillery Collection]. You might also enjoy learning about [how Chita grain whisky shapes Hibiki and other Suntory blends].