Ichiro’s Malt Wine Wood Reserve

Description

Ichiro’s Malt Wine Wood Reserve Bottling Note

Ichiro’s Malt Wine Wood Reserve is a blended malt whisky produced at the Chichibu Distillery by Venture Whisky. It belongs to the Leaf Series from Ichiro’s Malt, easily recognized by its red-leaf label design.

This expression is a vatting of domestic Chichibu malt and selected overseas malt whiskies. It undergoes a cask finish using red wine barrels, including standard French oak casks and Japanese wine casks sourced from Katsunuma, made from Muscat Bailey A and Merlot grapes. The finishing process enhances the whisky’s character with distinct wine-cask influences.

Bottled at 46% ABV, Wine Wood Reserve is non-chill filtered and free from artificial coloring, preserving its natural texture and hue. The result is a full-bodied profile with fruity notes and a balance of tannins and woodiness derived from the wine casks. Its reddish-amber tone and refined depth make it a standout among Japanese blended malts.

While some whisky enthusiasts tend to avoid wine-cask finishes due to perceived bitterness, Ichiro’s Malt Wine Wood Reserve offers a well-balanced experience. The tannins are kept in check, allowing the wine cask’s positive attributes to shine through—making it a worthwhile choice even for those typically hesitant about wine-cask matured whiskies.

Ichiro’s Malt Wine Wood Reserve Tasting Note

Nose: Sweet and inviting. Aromas reminiscent of grapes, cassis, strawberries, black cherries, and apricots blend with a pleasant oak-derived woodiness. There’s a subtle hint of toasted grain and a touch of pepper-like spice.

Palate: Rich and fruity, with vibrant berry flavours accompanied by a gentle tartness. Waves of honey and fruitiness unfold, followed by a pleasant bitterness akin to dark chocolate from the red wine tannins. Slightly spicy, with a silky mouthfeel that enhances its depth.

Finish: A layered fade of ripe fruit, sweet and astringent oak notes, and lingering spice.

Overall: True to its name, this whisky delivers a lush profile dominated by grape and berry aromas and flavours, offering a vivid red-purple fruitiness. While there’s a touch of alcohol heat, the typical drawbacks of wine cask maturation are transformed into appealing nuances, making it a well-balanced and expressive dram.