Chichibu 2014 11yo Cask #10409 Independent Whisky Bars of Scotland

Chichibu 2014 11yo Cask #10409 Independent Whisky Bars of Scotland

Region: Japan

ABV: 62.8%

Price: £270.00 

Distilled at Chichibu in 2014 using Concerto barley and bottled in 2025 for the Independent Whisky Bars of Scotland, this single-cask Japanese malt was matured in Oloroso sherry hogshead #10409. 

Nose

Palate

The palate opens with a burst of cherries and menthol notes - maraschino cherries, crushed mint leaves, raspberry jam.. it actually reminds us a bit of a raspberry mojito - there's a rum-like character here too. Going back, we're finding cloves, candied walnuts and a bit of runny caramel. The mouthfeel is good, it's got a sugar syrup-like texture, and those cherry menthol notes linger onto the finish, leaving quite a long, lingering flavour. The balance is actually really impressive, it definitely does not taste like 62% ABV - it's really drinkable neat. Time and air brings out woodier notes, a little damp earth and moss. 

Nose (with water)

The reduced nose feels like more of those rich, nutty sherry aromas have come out, and some of the lighter, more spritzy aromas have fallen into the background. That rum-like profile from the palate has arrived on the nose, along with lots of dried fruits and a little bit of cinnamon spice.

Palate (with water)

The reduced palate follows in the shoes of the reduced nose, more nutty, resinous sherry, although there's still some of those fresher berry notes around. It feels richer, we're getting dark chocolate and caramel that's been taken to the cusp of burning. There's also some candied ginger and a little Turkish delight coming through now too.

Conclusion

Probably one of our favourite Chichibu releases - the spirit is maturing well over the years and the cask in this case hasn't overpowered that spirit - instead it's added to it. It's a dram that changes over time - goes from fresh and vibrant to more oaky and vegetal over time, but that's part of its intrigue.

Score: 7.5/10

Value

It's pricey, but then again most Chichibu is.

• 10 - Perfection. One in a million
• 9 - Outstanding. Exceptional whisky.
• 8 - Great. Would seek this out.
• 7 - Good. Quality whisky.
• 6 - Above average. Happy to have a dram.
• 5 - Average. Drinkable whisky.
• 4 - Below average. Passable.
• 3 - Flawed. Noticeable negatives.
• 2 - Defective. Significant faults.
• 1 - Offensive. Pour it out.

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