Chichibu Ichiro’s Malt On The Way Japanese Single Malt (2019 Release)

Drawn from bourbon casks refill chibidaru quarter casks and mizunara-head hogsheads this has barley dried apricot finely ground pepper and sugared apple on the nose. Wafting peat smoke aromas are accentuated by dilution. Incredibly fruity with plenty of body the initial apple pear and spike of pepper are overtaken by golden syrup vanilla pastry candied fruits and fruity desserts. Stick with cask strength: Water releases gooseberry sharpness and quells the spices. (11000 bottles 288 for U.S.)