63,3°
Distillery : Chichibu - Japan
1sr Fill Bourbon Barrel
Original Bottling
Limited Edition
Single Cask
Bottled in 2024
Unchillfiltered, Uncoloured, Cask Strength
Almost Unpeated
Released on the precise date of 10 July 2024, this Chichibu has a special meaning because it was bottled by Jean-Marc Bellier, a very important and endearing figure at La Maison du Whisky who, as I understand it, retired on that date. More than a gift, it's a totem, a testimony to Jean-Marc's exceptional contribution to the world of whisky, in France and elsewhere. Incidentally, it's also a rather rare Chichibu, matured for 8 years in a 1st Fill Bourbon Barrel, distributed in just 165 bottles.
Let's Taste It :
The contribution of the Bourbon barrel is very well integrated: candied lemon, vanilla cream, papaya, pineapple, with saline and floral touches. It's mellow, egg custard, fruity, crushed pear and bursting with heather honey. On the palate, it's woodier and spicier, with brioche, marzipan and coconut. It's quite peppery, but also softened by the influence of Bourbon. The finish is long and explosive, but also unctuous, with melting butter on farmhouse bread, young pine, warm chestnuts, a dash of liquorice, earthy hints, and melting caramel.
In Short,
I'm not a big fan of Chichibu, but this is without doubt the best I've tasted. The others lacked that touch of genius that is so abundant in this one. Oh my God, the price had escaped me! It's quite outrageous, and therefore reserved for a very wealthy elite. That said, I'm sure it will soon be available at auction at slightly more affordable prices. Or not.
Score : 90
To Be Listened While Sipping :
Balthvs - Ojos Verdes
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