Hot off its debut release, Chichibu Distillery II already seems well on its way to delivering what Chichibu fans have been asking for years - more regular distillery releases, the sort that was not possible given the sheer demand that the first Chichibu Distillery had experienced.

To recap, Chichibu Distillery II is located just a short walk away from the first Chichibu Distillery in the Midorigaoka Industrial Park in of course, Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture. It was built 10 years into the Chichibu story, having been established in 2019, where it has now operated for over 6 years and thus has on hand some aged stock of whiskies.

Ichiro-san at Chichibu Distillery II.

Unlike Chichibu Distillery I, the second distillery makes use of French oak washbacks (from Taransaud, who also produces Chichibu's unique egg-shaped cask) and direct-fired distillation stills (versus Mizunara washbacks and steam based indirect heating in Chichibu Distillery 1). This is said to create hardier lactic acid bacteria that's resistant to the tannins will remain in the French oak! Chichibu Distillery 2 was also designed to be able to handle 5 times the amount of malt for each batch, with the mash tun this time semi-lauter with even a sight glass on the side for better quality control. Both the wash still and spirit stills in the second distillery are still Forsyths made, with both fitted out with straight heads, and again sized up volume capacities. 

| Read: Taste Testing The Chichibu Distillery II Single Malt Japanese Whisky

And so now it appears that Chichibu Distillery II has in store for us this 2026 just a Hint of Sherry, marking the second distillery release thus far!

"The new history born here in Chichibu, in the north-west of Saitama Prefecture, surrounded by deep mountains, has also begun to mark its next step in 2019. The rich flavour of traditional direct-fire distillation powerfully bridges tradition with innovation, allowing the taste crafted by a drop of whisky to resonate gently throughout. A pleasant smokiness, and a warm mellow sweetness derived from sherry casks. A deep, vibrant fruitiness enveloping the whole. Enjoy it all, along with its history for many years to come."

The Chichibu Distillery II Hint of Sherry 2026 is set to be bottled at 53.5% ABV.

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team