In the realm of Japanese whisky, the Chichibu Distillery, established by Venture Whisky in 2008, stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence. As the first independent distillery in Japan in over three decades, Chichibu has rapidly gained international acclaim, carving out a prestigious reputation in the world of fine whiskies.
Founded by Ichiro Akuto, a descendant of a 21-generation lineage in alcohol production, Chichibu Distillery is a culmination of historical expertise and modern vision. The Akuto family's journey in alcohol production began with sake in 1625 in Chichibu, Saitama, evolving over centuries to embrace whisky under the guidance of Ichiro's grandfather, Isouji Akuto.
Chichibu Distillery is renowned for crafting some of the finest Japanese whiskies available today, a testament to Ichiro Akuto's dedication and skill. Despite initial reluctance to join the family business, Ichiro's decision to leave his job at Suntory and take over Toa Shuzo's whisky operations marked a pivotal moment in his career and the future of Japanese craft whisky.
After Toa Shuzo's bankruptcy in 2000 and the subsequent sale of the company, Ichiro established Venture Whisky to rescue his family's legacy, including the precious whisky stocks from the Hanyu Distillery. This bold move not only preserved these valuable assets but also laid the foundation for the iconic Card Series and provided Chichibu with a treasure trove of aged whiskies for blending.
At Chichibu Distillery, the commitment to replenishing whisky stocks ensures that future generations can enjoy the exquisite craft of Japanese whisky. The distillery's approach combines traditional methods with innovative techniques, producing whiskies that are celebrated for their quality, complexity, and unique character.
Discover Chichibu Distillery, where each bottle is a symbol of Japanese whisky heritage and craftsmanship, continuing to flow and inspire the global whisky community.