Chichibu reveals 2024 London Edition
Japanese single malt whisky distillery Chichibu has unveiled its seventh annual release of London Edition.
Created exclusively for the UK market, the limited edition release is 'highly sought after' by whisky fans for its 'exceptional quality, rarity, and bespoke label design', according to Chichibu's UK distributor Speciality Brands. The 2024 edition features a colourful label designed by Raj Chavda, creative director of Elixir Distillers, and includes a glow-in-the-dark element. Chavda said of the label design: “For the latest Chichibu London Edition, I took inspiration from Musha-e: The Warriors of Ukiyo-e. This genre captures fact and fiction, truth and fable. "In this version, we have the noble warrior battling a dragon, Japan's most legendary warrior and most iconic mythical beast – a symbol of courage and strength. The glow-in-the-dark element was something I have been experimenting with and is a first for the brand, combining Japanese design tradition with modern techniques.” First launched at The Whisky Show in 2018, the London series has seen immense demand, with whisky enthusiasts eagerly anticipating each release. The seventh edition continues the tradition, offering a 'unique' character distinct from previous releases. It is the series' first edition since Chichibu announced its partnership with Speciality Brands. The blend of approximately 10 casks is predominantly matured in ex-Bourbon barrels, which 'impart a gentle sweetness and fruitiness', with an additional red wine cask to add structure and balance. Opening with 'notes of creamy vanilla and rich honey, accompanied by hints of white peach and a delicate smokiness', the palate follows with 'velvety texture with flavours of white pepper and cream, leading to a bright finish with fresh minerality and a touch of resinous pine'. Limited to around 1,920 bottles, the 2024 Chichibu London Edition is offered at 50.5% ABV in 700ml format. The expression will be available and sold through The Whisky Exchange and other independent retailers, with a suggested retail price of £210 (US$281) at the time of release. Located 100km from Tokyo in Saitama prefecture, Chichibu Distillery was established by Ichiro Akuto, whose family has a long history of alcohol production in Japan. Since beginning production in 2008, the distillery has gained a reputation for producing 'elegant and sophisticated' whiskies. Last month, Chichibu collaborated with Roka on a whisky for the London-based restaurant's 20th anniversary. Earlier this year, Dutch distributor Salud Spirits released the fifth edition of the Chichibu 7even Gods of Fortune series: Fukurokuju and unveiled ‘the most limited Chichibu release ever’, Spirits of Salud: Angels Favourite.
