ICHIRO'S MALT & GRAIN - Japanese Blended Whisky - Limited Edition 2021 - 48.50% ABV
Ichiro’s Malt is a key reference in the field of independent bottling of Japanese whisky. Founded by Ichiro Akuto in a modest workshop in Chichibu, a charming town located just 100 km northwest of Tokyo, this artisanal house uses two small traditional stills to create its exceptional whiskies. Akuto's rich distillation experience comes directly from the family business, rooted in the prestigious Hanyu distillery, founded in 1625 as a sake brewery. Ichiro Akuto's grandfather, a visionary, obtained a license to produce whisky in 1941, a tradition his father passionately continued by acquiring two Scottish stills capable of producing about 400 barrels annually. However, the Japanese economic crisis of the 2000s, coupled with a decline in sake consumption, forced the family to sell their business. Despite this setback, Ichiro Akuto turned the situation into a remarkable success by recovering stills and maturing whisky barrels from the new owners.
Today, Ichiro Akuto carries on the family legacy by applying distillation methods refined over decades at Hanyu, making him one of Japan's most innovative and ambitious distillers. With about 4,000 whisky barrels maturing – including Sherry, red wine, and Bourbon casks – Ichiro Akuto also leads innovative local barley cultivation projects, aiming to create a truly authentic and 100% Japanese whisky.
Ichiro's Malt & Grain 2021 is a prestigious limited edition that has been awarded the title of "Best Limited Edition Blend in the World" at the World Whiskies Awards three times in five years, confirming its excellence and international reputation.
Slightly peated, a perfect balance between finesse and character
