Chichibu 2016 Single Casks – Cranes Duo

Overview

The Whisky Exchange opened a short ballot window for the Chichibu 2016 Single Casks - Cranes Duo, a paired release limited to approximately 250 sets. Demand was extremely high due to the age statement, single cask format, Mizunara influence, and premium presentation. With a £500 retail price and early secondary expectations exceeding £1,000, this release firmly positioned itself as investment-grade Japanese whisky. The limited production ensured strong auction liquidity without risk of market saturation.

Breaking Down the Flip

Retail pricing at £500 created a strong premium entry point.

Production was capped at approximately 250 pairs, keeping supply extremely tight.

Early secondary expectations cleared £1,000+, confirming a clean double-up.

Mizunara cask influence added significant collector appeal.

Strong auction exit routes were available via major whisky auction houses.

Timeline: Chichibu 2016 Cranes Duo Ballot & Resale Activity

Retail Release

06/10/2025

Chichibu released the Cranes Duo Single Casks through selected retailers in paired format.

Initial Secondary Listings Appeared

13/10/2025

13–14 October 2025 - Early resale listings emerged shortly after sell-outs, testing the market.

First £900+ Pair Sales Recorded

21/10/2025

Initial secondary sales closed around £900 after fees for the pair.

Auction Market Assessment Began

30/10/2025

Late October to Early November 2025 - Collectors awaited full auction results to establish the long-term price ceiling.

Useful Links / Resources

▶️ Whisky Auctioneer

▶️ The Whisky Exchange

▶️ Scotch Whisky Auctions

▶️ The Whisky Exchange

Final Thoughts

This release was widely viewed as a slam-dunk flip. It ticked every box for an investment-grade whisky: strong producer, single cask format, Mizunara influence, limited production, and premium presentation. With only around 250 pairs available, auction flooding was never a concern. For winners, this was a straightforward £500 into £1,000+ opportunity, with multiple high-liquidity exit routes available immediately.