Since its founding by Ichiro Akuto in 2004, Ichiro’s Malt has evolved from a local craft brand into a global legend.
From the iconic “Card Series”—which famously fetched a record-breaking price at auction—to the innovative releases of today, the brand has redefined the world’s perception of Japanese whisky.
My personal journey with Chichibu began in 2008. Back then, the Card Series was still a hidden treasure, and the distillery was filled with a raw, pioneering energy.
Looking back, that early encounter was a true HITSUZEN—an inevitable connection that allowed me to witness the growth of this global icon from its very roots.
The Evolution of a Legend: A Strategic Masterpiece To celebrate their 20th anniversary, Ichiro’s Malt has released a special blended whisky. While the 10th-anniversary “First TEN” was a single malt, this 20th-anniversary bottle is a sophisticated blend.
This choice highlights Ichiro Akuto’s strategic vision: a commitment to self-produced grain whisky and the elevated art of blending.
The complexity of the cask types, peat levels, and aging years in this bottle represents the true culmination of the brand’s 20-year history.
The “Secret” Components: A Gathering of Legends The 20th Anniversary bottle is composed of an astonishing array of “Legendary Spirits” that will leave any enthusiast speechless:
• Chichibu 15yo, Hanyu 39yo, Karuizawa 18yo, Kawasaki 47yo, BenRiach 14yo, and a World Blended component.
This is more than just a whisky; it is a tapestry of time, woven from some of the rarest stocks in the world.
Translating the Soul: The Role of the Ambassador I recently had the honor of attending a brand seminar led by Yumi Yoshikawa, the global brand ambassador and a fellow “Icons of Whisky” award winner. Listening to her and Mr. Moriyama, I realized that Ichiro’s Malt is loved not just for its liquid, but for the community and culture it builds.
They don’t just sell a product; they interpret the founder’s vision and deliver it to the world with their own passion and aesthetic.
This human connection is the reason why Ichiro’s Malt remains a “must-have” for collectors and drinkers alike.
At Bar Little Happiness in Hiroshima, I have secured this precious anniversary bottle for our guests.
I invite you to taste the future of Japanese whisky in our quiet, dedicated sanctuary. Your “destined glass” is waiting.
↓Deep Dive into the Story: For those who wish to explore the full, detailed history and my personal reflections on this distillery, please visit our original column here (Japanese): (You can use the language switcher at the top of our site to translate the page into your preferred language.)↓
出逢いは必然。Rum&Whiskyの世界へようこそ。 (An encounter is inevitable. Welcome to the world of Rum & Whisky.)
Guest Information
• Multilingual Menu: Available in 8 languages
• Payment: All major credit cards accepted
• Cover Charge: No cover charge
• Atmosphere: Quiet / No smoking (Electronic cigarettes allowed) / Solo & Small groups welcome
Visit Us in Hiroshima
We welcome guests from all over the world with our 8-language menu and a massive collection of over 1,000 whiskies.
Explore our vast range of Japanese labels, featuring an unrivaled selection of local Hiroshima craft whiskies, alongside an extensive array of fine Scotches.
No matter where you are from, your “destined glass” is waiting.
Find Out More
• Google Maps: [Get Directions & View Location]
• Bar Information & Concept: [Our Philosophy, Menu, and Service System]
• Spirits Column & Distillery Visits: [Exclusive Stories & Distillery Reports]
(Dive deep into the world of whisky and rum. This site can be translated into English or Korean using the language switcher tab at the top of the page.)
