Ichiro's Malt Chichibu On The Way 2024 "Floor Malted" Japanese Whiskey

Chichibu “On the Way” 2024 Floor Malted is a standout, delivering depth and sweetness seldom found in Japanese whisky. Its fruit-forward, confectionery-rich profile—balanced by malt structure and spice intensity—makes it richly satisfying yet elegantly restrained. A must-taste for collectors and fans of artisanal process-driven whisky, it’s both expressive and uniquely memorable.

🧪 Origins & Concept

This fourth release in the Chichibu “On the Way” series marks a milestone: 100% floor-malted barley, germinated and turned manually—an exceptionally rare artisan method in modern whisky production. Locally grown Japanese barley fermented in Mizunara oak washbacks is double-distilled at Chichibu and matured in a diverse array of casks—ex-bourbon, puncheon, Mizunara hogsheads, wine, and Chibidaru. With an average age of 11 years (range 7–15 yrs), the whisky is bottled at a bold 54.5% ABV, non-chill-filtered and naturally colored, with a limited outturn of about 12,000 bottles globally (just 600 allocated to the U.S.).

👃 Nose (Aroma)

The nose is strikingly plush and fragrant: malted barley, creamy porridge with honey, and orchard fruits like pear, peach, and yellow plum. Subtle confectionery notes—think banana chips, candy gummies, or milk bottle sweets—add nostalgic sweetness, joined by white pepper, cut grass, and sandalwood spice as it opens ✨.

👅 Palate & Texture

Medium-bodied and richly textured, this whisky delivers biscuity malt sweetness with honeyed barley at the core. Flavours unfold with peach, nectarine, apricot, and pineapple, layered with lemon drops, white pepper, and a muted vanilla fudge. The mouthfeel is soft yet chewy, offering playful acidity and a gentle lactic character reminiscent of yogurt or creamy fruit — vivid yet elegant.

🔁 Finish

The finish is long, clean, and graceful: fruit sweetness lingers alongside soft oak tannins, gentle peppery warmth, and a final flourish of lemon-scented white chocolate or dried pineapple. The overall impression is ripe, sweet, and smoothly balanced.

🌟 Highlights

• ABV: 54.5% (Cask Strength)

• Age: 7–15 years (average around 11)

• Style: Unpeated, floor-malted barley single malt with bright, lush orchard fruit and malt complexity

• Rarity: Only 12,000 bottles globally; showcases a rare traditional technique and Chichibu’s spirit-driven character

• Best For: Sipping neat or exploring subtle complexity — ideal for lovers of refined yet expressive malt whiskey