Chichibu Paris Edition 2018

Chichibu Paris Edition 2018, 5 YO, 57.3 %

The Chichibu Paris Edition 2018 was originally intended exclusively for the French market, but I have heard strong rumours that at least a handful of bottles might find their way to Norway. We’ll see what happens.

Anyways, this is a limited release of 1357 bottles, released in 2018 as indicated by the name. It is composed of five casks; and according to La Maison du Whisky who sold the majority of these bottles, the make up was three hogsheads distilled in 2011 (produced with Tipple barley) , and two ex-wine casks, one distilled in 2012 and the other in 2009 (both produced with Braemar barley). We can therefore safely conclude this is a 5 YO at a minimum.

Nose: Fresh and vibrant. I find soft notes of citrus mixed with spices and malt. After a few minutes the aromas of a bread bakery on a cool winter day. A touch of dry-ish oak. Cool custard with a sprinkling of nutmeg and cloves.

Taste: Very rich and filled to the brim with body. Creamy mouthfeel. Thick and spiced, floral honey. White pepper and ginger.

Finish: Medium long finish. No longer floral but rather herbal. Fruity still and spicy. It has a playful "fizzy" feel that tickles the tongue in a very pleasant way. Hints of oak in te end.

Comment: Japanese spicy harmony.

Score 89/100

Sláinte!
- Thomas