Ichiro Akuto
Inductee: 93
Whiskies - 2024
Japan
Born into a family of whisky distillers, in business since the 17th century, it was obvious that a career in the drinks industry would beckon for Ichiro Akuto. From humble beginnings as an independent bottler, to founding Chichibu Distillery in 2008, he has been called a rock star of the industry and a pioneer of new-wave Japanese whisky.
Ichiro graduated from the Tokyo University of Agriculture and sought experience in the whisky industry, working for several distilleries in the UK and Japan. Despite the closure of his family’s business, he established the successful Venture Whisky brand and, only a few years after, opened Chichibu Distillery.
The distillery is in Ichiro’s hometown of the same name, a historical development for the area and Japanese whisky. The last time a whisky production licence was granted in Japan was 1971, making Ichiro a frontrunner of the entire modern industry.
Chichibu Distillery has since opened a second site and has been inundated with awards and accolades, including a World’s Best for Ichiro’s Malt & Grain Blended Japanese Whisky in the World Whiskies Awards.
After decades of stagnancy in the industry, no one in Japan knew the process of floor malting or how to grow barley for whisky production. Ichiro’s unique approach helped him stand out and get the industry back on its feet. Making use of locally grown barley, peat, and the use of his own ‘chibidaru’ quarter casks proved he was an innovator of his craft.
Not content with just making acclaimed whisky, Ichiro has been instrumental in ensuring brand standards and quality with the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association.