The Chita distillery was founded in 1972 by Keizo Saji, the second Master Blender of Suntory and son of Suntory’s founder. Located on the misty, calm shores of the Chita Peninsula in Aichi Prefecture, the distillery was established specifically to create high-quality Japanese grain whisky. It is situated in Port Nagoya, Japan, and has been a critical part of Suntory’s whisky production for decades, contributing to famous blends like Hibiki, Kakubin, and Suntory Old.
What makes the Chita distillery unique is that unlike most grain whisky distillers that produce only one type of grain whisky, this distillery prides itself on crafting three distinct types of grain whiskies using a continuous multiple column distillation process. These three styles are created through different distillation processes – a heavy style distilled through two columns, a light style processed through four columns, and a medium style distilled using three columns.
Though the distillery has been operating since 1972, The Chita as a single grain bottling was only released in September 2015 for the Japanese market, becoming available at select international travel retail locations starting in July 2016. Prior to this release, the Chita grain whiskies had traditionally been used as the “dashi” or broth that enhances the harmony of Suntory blends.
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Type: Single Grain Japanese Whisky
Distillery: The Chita Distillery (Suntory)
Location: Chita Peninsula, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
ABV: 43% (86 proof)
Age Statement: None (NAS)
Maturation: The whisky is uniquely matured in three different kinds of casks:
- American ex-bourbon barrels
- Spanish Oak barrels
- European Oak wine barrels
Primary Grain: Corn (unlike traditional Scottish grain whiskies that often use wheat)
Production Method: Continuous multiple column distillation process that allows for the creation of three types of grain whiskies, which are then blended together by Suntory’s Master Blender.
APPEARANCE
The Chita comes in a sophisticated indigo gift box with the name of the whisky presented in traditional Japanese calligraphy. The bottle design is similar to Yamazaki’s and Hakushu’s, though crystal clear to showcase the whisky. The packaging features a dark grey neck brace and minimalist labeling with subtle etched details – simple yet elegantly designed.
In the glass, the whisky presents a pale straw color with medium tears.
NOSE
The nose initially appears light and creamy with delicate rose water notes. It gradually opens to reveal honey, vanilla, and crème brûlée aromas. There’s a distinct presence of tropical fruits – notes of pineapple, mango, and melon emerge, accompanied by soft spices. Cardamom and rose blossom add complexity to the aromatic profile, which is indulgent yet refined.
Additional aromatic layers include coconut, peaches, and subtle woody notes. Traces of cinnamon and nutmeg add a warm spicy dimension that balances the sweeter elements.
PALATE
On the palate, there’s an immediate sensation of vanilla sponge cake sweetness and oak notes complemented by honey and tropical fruit flavors. The texture is fresh, silky, and sweet with a pleasant mentholated quality.
A rich fusion of honey, caramel, and vanilla cake forms the core taste profile, enhanced by raisins and traces of tropical fruits. The body is medium with a smooth, creamy mouthfeel. Adding water smooths out any sharp edges and enhances the fruity sweetness.
While not overwhelmingly complex, the palate delivers a pleasantly balanced experience with faint traces of cinnamon and cardamom adding subtle spice.
FINISH
The finish is medium in length, featuring notes of lemon drops, vanilla, and wood. Light woodiness and gentle spice linger pleasantly. The finale develops notes of spicy oak that leave a memorable impression.
Overall, the finish has been described as “a gentle hug of a dram” – delicate, sweet, and lingering with just a touch of warmth.
UNIQUE CHARACTER & OVERALL IMPRESSION
Shinji Fukuyo, Suntory’s Master Blender, describes The Chita Single Grain Whisky as “the serenity of Japanese whisky.” Like the misty, calm seas of the Chita Peninsula on a day of elegant stillness, this whisky has a presence that is unmistakably serene.
Its rich and complex aromatic profile marked by fruity, woody, and spicy notes has characteristics somewhat reminiscent of American bourbon whiskies, yet with a distinctly Japanese refinement.
Through continuous research and innovation, the Chita’s grain whiskies have achieved an unrivaled sophistication and complexity that allows them to finally take center stage rather than merely supporting other whiskies in blends.
The Chita Single Grain is considered a fresh and well-balanced whisky that maintains the quality expected from Suntory products. Sweet and fruity, it showcases the typical notes of a Single Grain but with remarkable refinement. It’s particularly well-suited for summer evenings, offering different layers and nuances as it develops in the glass.
Serving suggestion: The Chita can be enjoyed at room temperature with or without ice to express its full taste palette, or in a highball for a refreshing and authentically Japanese tasting experience.