As they say: When it rains it pours – and this is a storm that I am truly grateful for. Just this past December we saw the introduction of Nikka Whisky into the US market with their Taketsuru 12 and Yoichi 15. Now there is word that Ichiro Akuto and his Chichibu malts will be taking the plunge into the US as well. In some ways this seems to make sense because Chichibu is already available in Europe, however I am surprised by how quickly Akuto San decided to enter the market here. Suntory has only slowly over several years released the 4 currently available expressions here and as mentioned Nikka only launched a couple of months ago. It is not clear when exactly Chichibu will officially launch here or with what expressions. We will update as we obtain more information. If you are in the US and would like to meet Akuto San and chat a bit about his whiskies he will be attending the Nth Universal Whisky Experience in Las Vegas March 1 – 2.
The WhiskyWall 
Think of the extra 50mls (two drams) you will get to enjoy of Chichibu in accordance to bottling regulations (750ml).
I’ll just be happy that I don’t have to fly to Japan to pick them up!
Good news for folks in the US, but I still think you will need to be on your toes to secure some. Akuto-san has fervently maintained that production of Chichibu will be limited(I’m sure you have the figures), so how many bottles will be available after Japan and Europe/UK receive their quotas?
I expect it to be tough – especially after the brand starts to get more popular here.