Japanese Whisky

• Kanosuke 2021 First Edition Cask Strength Japanese Single Malt Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $799. 00

  Bottle

  $9588.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 58%

  Collectors will be keen to get their hands on the first single malt whisky from new Japanese distillery, Kanosuke, founded in 2017 by Komasa Jozo, a large shochu producer in the Kagoshima prefecture. Distilled using unpeated malt in 2017 (the first year of production) and 2018 , the whisky was matured in a mix of re-charred American white oak barrels and ex- Kozuru barrels (a barrel-aged sochu developed by the company in the late '50s and one of their flagship products). Blended after three years of maturation, it's described as a soft and fruity malt, with orchard fruits, sweet oak and spice. 58% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Very limited stocks.
  

  Notes from the producers.... Nose: Lime, prune, raisin butter. Taste: Mellow and woody, vanilla, Nikki cinnamon. Finish: Bittersweetness of chocolate-covered candied orange peel, soft sea breeze.

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• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages The Masterpieces in Eight Colours 1st Batch Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $9999. 00

  Bottle

  $119988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 49.3%

  Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.

  "The Masterpieces in Eight Colours” is a series of eight batches of Karuizawa presented in different traditional Japanese colours. The series opens with this edition, matured in a Sherry Butt, bottled at 49.3% without chill filtration and packaged in red. Kanji writing on the label is by calligrapher, Souun Takeda, one of the most famous Kanji artists in Japan. His artwork is highly praised for its innovative, yet traditional way of expressing the beauty of the Japanese language and spirit. Normally these very rare Karuizawas are sold as full sets of eight making the cost prohibitive for most collectors. At the time of writing, we have four of the series on offer which can be purchased separately. One only.

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• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages The Masterpieces in Eight Colours 3rd Batch Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $9999. 00

  Bottle

  $119988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 51.8%

  Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.

  "The Masterpieces in Eight Colours” is a series of eight batches of Karuizawa presented in different traditional Japanese colours. The third in the series was matured in a Sherry Butt, bottled at 51.8% without chill filtration and packaged in green. Kanji writing on the label is by calligrapher, Souun Takeda, one of the most famous Kanji artists in Japan. His artwork is highly praised for its innovative, yet traditional way of expressing the beauty of the Japanese language and spirit. Normally these very rare Karuizawas are sold as full sets of eight making the cost prohibitive for most collectors. At the time of writing, we have four of the series on offer which can be purchased separately. One only.

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• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages 36 Views of Mount Fuji Batch 36 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 60.8%

  This is the final bottling of 36 in the highly collectable series of Karuizawas, '36 Views of Mount Fuji'.

  Each bottle in this series was produced from Karuizawa's final two vintages, 1999 and 2000 and bottled at cask strength. The labels feature artwork by Japanese ukiyo-e artist Hokusai, depicting Mount Fuji from different aspects. Batch 36 illustrates a close-up view of Mount Fuji.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, it's increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment. 60.8% Alc./Vol. One only.

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• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages 36 Views of Mount Fuji Mount Fuji From The Mountains Of Totomi Batch 34 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 61.4%

  Each bottle in this series was produced from Karuizawa's final two vintages, 1999 and 2000 and bottled at cask strength. The labels feature artwork by Japanese ukiyo-e artist Hokusai, depicting Mount Fuji from different aspects. This is from Batch 34 with the painting 'Mount Fuji from the mountains of Tōtōmi'.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, it's increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment. 61.4% Alc./Vol. One only.

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• 2000 Karuizawa 18 Year Old Single Cask No.7608 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 62%

  A highly prized and much sought-after sherry matured Karuizawa (these are the ones that typically get the big scores). Part of the "Flower and Bird" series, cask #7608 was distilled in 2000 and matured for at least eighteen years before being bottled in 2018. Reports have it we're getting near the final stocks of Karuizawa. It's uncertain how many more batches are to come. Anything earlier is already fetching a considerable premium. This may well be the best opportunity you'll come across to enter a rarified market. 479 bottles. 62% Alc./Vol. One only to sell.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, it's increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment.

  Delivery Information
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages 36 Views of Mount Fuji Hodogaya on the Tokaido Batch 33 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 61.4%

  A bottle of Karuizawa from the 36 Views of Mount Fuji series, filled with liquid from the distillery's final two vintages, 1999 and 2000. The label features artwork by Japanese ukiyo-e artist Hokusai, depicting Mount Fuji from different aspects, in this case, the painting 'Hodogaya on the Tōkaidō'.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, it's increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment.

  61.4% Alc./Vol. One only.

  Delivery Information
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages 36 Views of Mount Fuji Umezawa in Sagami Province Batch 30 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 61.2%

  Note: very slight scuffing on the Japanese lettering of the front upper bottle label.

  We have one bottle only from Karuizawa's 'Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji' series released by La Maison du Whisky in mid 2016. These expressions were drawn from casks of 1999 and 2000 vintage whiskies and offered at cask strength. Each of the 36 labels in the series depicts landscape prints by the Japanese ukiyo-e artist, Hokusai, with Mount Fuji illustrated from different locations in various weather conditions.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, it's increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment. 61.2% Alc./Vol.

  Delivery Information
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages 36 Views of Mount Fuji Field in Owari Province Batch 29 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 60.8%

  We have one bottle only from Karuizawa's 'Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji' series released by La Maison du Whisky in mid 2016. These expressions were drawn from casks of 1999 and 2000 vintage whiskies and offered at cask strength. Each of the 36 labels in the series depicts landscape prints by the Japanese ukiyo-e artist, Hokusai, with Mount Fuji illustrated from different locations in various weather conditions.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, it's increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment. 60.8% Alc./Vol.

  Delivery Information
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages 36 Views of Mount Fuji Sunset across the Ryōgoku bridge from the bank of the Sumida River at Onmayagashi Batch 32 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 60.9%

  Only recently released, but already on auction sites. Reportedly these are getting near the final bottlings of Karuizawa. It's uncertain how many more batches are to come.

  We have one bottle only from Batch 32 of Karuizawa's 'Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji' series released by La Maison du Whisky. These expressions were drawn from casks of 1999 and 2000 vintage whiskies and offered at cask strength. Each of the 36 labels depicts landscape prints by the Japanese ukiyo-e artist, Hokusai, with Mount Fuji illustrated from different locations in various weather conditions.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, its increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment. 60.9% Alc./Vol.

  Delivery Information
• 2000 Karuizawa 18 Year Old Single Cask No.7377 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 61.6%

  A highly prized and much sought-after sherry matured Karuizawa (these are the ones that typically get the big scores). Part of the "Flower and Bird" series, cask #7337 was distilled in 2000 and matured for at least eighteen years before being bottled in 2018. Reports have it we're getting near the final stocks of Karuizawa. It's uncertain how many more batches are to come. Anything earlier is already fetching a considerable premium. This may well be the best opportunity you'll come across to enter an increasingly rarified market. 498 bottles. 61.6% Alc./Vol. One only to sell.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, it's increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment.

  Delivery Information
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages 36 Views of Mount Fuji A View of Mount Fuji Across Lake Suwa Batch 31 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 60.6%

  Only recently released, but already on auction sites. Reportedly these are getting near the final bottlings of Karuizawa. It's uncertain how many more batches are to come.

  We have one bottle only from Batch 31 of Karuizawa's 'Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji' series released by La Maison du Whisky. These expressions were drawn from casks of 1999 and 2000 vintage whiskies and offered at cask strength. Each of the 36 labels depicts landscape prints by the Japanese ukiyo-e artist, Hokusai, with Mount Fuji illustrated from different locations in various weather conditions.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, its increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment. 60.6% Alc./Vol.

  Delivery Information
• 2000 Karuizawa 18 Year Old Single Cask No.7550 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 62.2%

  A highly prized and much sought-after sherry matured Karuizawa (these are the ones that typically get the big scores). Part of the "Flower and Bird" series, cask #7550 was distilled in 2000 and matured for at least eighteen years before being bottled in 2018. Reports have it we're getting near the final stocks of Karuizawa. It's uncertain how many more batches are to come. Anything earlier is already fetching a considerable premium. This may well be the best opportunity you'll come across to enter an increasingly rarified market. 514 bottles. 62.2% Alc./Vol. One only to sell.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, it's increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment.

  Delivery Information
• 2000 Karuizawa 18 Year Old Single Cask No.507 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 62.9%

  A highly prized and much sought-after sherry matured Karuizawa (these are the ones that typically get the big scores). Part of the "Flower and Bird" series, cask #507 was distilled in 2000 and matured for at least eighteen years before being bottled in 2018. Reports have it we're getting near the final stocks of Karuizawa. It's uncertain how many more batches are to come. Anything earlier is already fetching a considerable premium. This may well be the best opportunity you'll come across to enter an increasingly rarified market. 483 bottles. 62.9% Alc./Vol. One only to sell.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, it's increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment.

  Delivery Information
• 1999 Karuizawa Miyako Odori Geisha Label Single Cask No.899 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $7999. 00

  Bottle

  $95988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 60.6%

  Karuizawa are well known among collectors with many of their whiskies receiving international acclaim. Just as remarkable are the returns Karuizawa's have yielded since the distillery ceased production in 2000. Reports have it that around 300 single casks were produced - this one was distilled in 1999 and bottled in 2017 from sherry cask No. 899, featuring the ukiyo-e painting “A Young Girl Looking Through a Nozoki-megane” by Kitagawa Utamaro in 1792. It's one of a series of 'Miyako Odori Geisha' labels, named after a Spring time dance performed by Geisha in Kyoto when the cherry blossoms are in bloom. Eight bottles make up the series, each from 1999 or 2000 distillations. From an outturn of 478 bottles we have one only. 60.6% Alc./Vol.

  Delivery Information
• Karuizawa 15 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $1799. 00

  Bottle

  $21588.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 40%

  Japanese whiskies have been delivering remarkable returns compared with other segments, and the most sought after of all are the whiskies from the now silent Karuizawa distillery. As one of the top performers on the UK auction scene in recent years, this bottle represents an opportunity to secure a piece of Japanese distilling history. One only to sell. Overall excellent condition. 40% Alc./Vol.

  Karuizawa's preference for only using sherry casks (though not exclusively) helped build its reputation, and there have been a number of single cask bottlings in this sherry-led style. This matches their flavoursome spirit, made using only Golden Promise barley (as Macallan once did), all shipped from Simpson’s of Berwick. Since the mid-nineties Karuizawa was unpeated. It's ironic that the vision and persistence of its proprietors was commercially unsustainable during its operation. The cult distillery ceased production in 2000 and completely closed in 2011.

  Delivery Information
• Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages 36 Views of Mount Fuji Fugaku Sanjurokkei Batch 3 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5999. 00

  Bottle

  $71988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 60.5%

  We have one bottle only from Karuizawa's 'Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji' series released by La Maison du Whisky in mid 2016. These expressions were drawn from casks of 1999 and 2000 vintage whiskies and offered at cask strength. This bottle is from the third batch in the range. Each of the 36 labels depicts landscape prints by the Japanese ukiyo-e artist, Hokusai, with Mount Fuji illustrated from different locations in various weather conditions.

  The Karuizawa distillery was opened in 1955 in Miyota, near Mt. Asama – an active volcano. Since ceasing production in 2000, it's increasingly rare whiskies have topped the auction charts for returns in the Japanese segment. 60.5% Alc./Vol.

  Delivery Information
• 1999 Karuizawa 18 Year Old Single Cask No.2410 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $6999. 00

  Bottle

  $83988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 59.9%

  The Karuizawa distillery finally closed its doors in 2011, with production ceasing in 2000. Reports have it that around 300 single casks were produced - this one was distilled in 1999 and matured in sherry cask #2410 before being bottled exclusively for Taiwan Duty Free. 378 bottles were available. We have one only. 59.9% Alc./Vol.

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• Karuizawa 8 Year Old Japanese Malt Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $1199. 00

  Bottle

  $14388.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 40%

  Japanese whiskies have been delivering remarkable returns compared with other segments, and the most sought after of all are the whiskies from the now silent Karuizawa distillery. As one of the top performers on the UK auction scene in recent years, this bottle represents a very rare opportunity to secure a piece of Japanese distilling history at a very reasonable price. Reportedly drawn from a bourbon cask and a sherry butt, this 8 year old was released around 2000. One only to sell. Some very minor markings to the outer carton but overall excellent condition. 40% Alc./Vol.

  Karuizawa's preference for only using sherry casks (though not exclusively) helped build its reputation, and there have been a number of single cask bottlings in this sherry-led style. This matches their flavoursome spirit, made using only Golden Promise barley (as Macallan once did), all shipped from Simpson’s of Berwick. Since the mid-nineties Karuizawa was unpeated. It's ironic that the vision and persistence of its proprietors was commercially unsustainable during its operation. The cult distillery ceased production in 2000 and completely closed in 2011.

  Please note; the presentation box has some scuffs to the exterior. Overall the condition is good for its age. Please contact [email protected] should you require any detailed images prior to ordering. 

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• Karuizawa Emerald Geisha Bourbon Cask #8518 Cask Strength 35 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $19999. 00

  Bottle

  $239988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 59.1%

  Just when we thought our Japanese collection couldn't get any better comes this astonishing Karuizawa, drawn from a Bourbon cask and aged for 35 years. Bottled by Elixir Distillers, and usually available via ballot only, it ranks amongst the world’s most rare and desirable whiskies. Intended as a sister edition to the sherry matured 'Golden Geisha', putting the two bottles side by side completes the label. We have bottle 36 of 265. Literally rarer than emeralds, it comes beautifully packaged in a decanter style bottle and etched wooden presentation case. Bottle in excellent condition. 59.1% Alc./Vol. One only.

  Japanese whiskies have been delivering remarkable returns compared with other segments, and the most sought after of all are the whiskies from the now silent Karuizawa distillery. As one of the top performers on the UK auction scene in recent years, this bottle represents an opportunity to secure a piece of Japanese distilling history. This matches their flavoursome spirit, made using only Golden Promise barley (as Macallan once did), all shipped from Simpson’s of Berwick. Since the mid-nineties Karuizawa was unpeated. It's ironic that the vision and persistence of its proprietors was commercially unsustainable during its operation. The cult distillery ceased production in 2000 and completely closed in 2011.

  Delivery Information
• 1982 Karuizawa 27 Year Old Geisha Cask No.2748 Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $5499. 00

  Bottle

  $65988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 56.1%

  Rare and collectable Japanese whiskies have been disappearing from our shelves at a remarkable rate. Returns for investors have been extraordinary. The most sought after of all are the whiskies from the now silent Karuizawa distillery. Here is another opportunity to secure a piece of Japanese distilling history.

  Matured in a first fill sherry cask since 1982, this exceptionally old release was bottled for The Whisky Exchange's (TWE) 10th Anniversary in 2009. One only.
  Note: some creasing and marking to the outer box. Bottle in excellent condition.

  Established in 1955 at the foothills of Mount Asama, Karuizawa's preference for only using sherry casks (though not exclusively) helped build its reputation. There have been a number of single cask bottlings in this sherry-led style. This matches their flavoursome spirit, made using only Golden Promise barley (as Macallan once did), all shipped from Simpson’s of Berwick. Since the mid-nineties Karuizawa was unpeated. It's ironic that the vision and persistence of its proprietors was commercially unsustainable during its operation. The cult distillery ceased production in 2000 and completely closed in 2011.

  Delivery Information
• 1990 Karuizawa 19 Year Old Sherry Cask 6446 (Bottled for Whisky Live 2010) Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $2999. 00

  Bottle

  $35988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 60%

  Bottled for the 2010 Whisky Live festival in Japan, for which four casks of Japanese whisky were selected as official festival bottlings. One only to sell.

  Other reviews... Nose: Big, bold sherry, as a follower of Karuizawa might expect. Marmalade, cherries and wood stain. Gets more woody with water. Palate: Neat, it's not for the faint hearted. It is blistering stuff that needs water to tame. With water, the mouth feel is reasonably smooth, with sherry, raisins, lovely orange dark chocolate, crumpets with maple syrup, Brazil nut and mint. Finish: Most of the flavors from the nose and then fading to a hint of grassyness/timber. General comment: Not quite as good as the best sherry-matured whiskies I've had from Japan, but very good nonetheless. - nonjatta.com

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• Karuizawa Glass Decanter 21 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $6499. 00

  Bottle

  $77988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  Karuizawa is held in quite different esteem to the Nikka and Suntory giants. Despite being the country's smallest whisky producer, they had ambitions to be one of Japan's best, taking an approach reminscent of Macallan when they were setting the bar for Scotch malt excellence in the 1980s.

  Fifty years ago the site of Karuizawa was actually a vineyard before its owner Daikoku-budoshu converted it into a whisky distillery in 1962. At 850 metres above sea level it is the most elevated in Japan. It stands in the countryside, in the shadow of a dormant volcano named Mt. Asama, to the north west of Tokyo.

  Karuizawa's preference for only using sherry casks (though not exclusively) helped build its reputation, and there have been a number of single cask bottlings in this sherry-led style. This matches their flavoursome spirit, made using only Golden Promise barley (as Macallan once did), all shipped from Simpson’s of Berwick. Since the mid-nineties Karuizawa was unpeated. It's ironic that the vision and persistence of its proprietors was commercially unsustainable during its operation. The distillery ceased production in 2000 and completely closed in 2011.

  This exceedingly rare 1978 vintage of Karuizawa was bottled for Mercian (a Japan-based wine & spirits division of Kirin). Beautifully presented in a glass decanter along with a replacement stopper and neck tag which remains unopened. Bottle number 506 from cask 3035, it is rumoured that only 506 bottles were ever produced.

  Condition: Fill level is standard for this bottling. Minor damage on the gold foil covering the seal. Presentation cardboard box in overall good condition.

  *One bottle only to sell.

  No tasting notes available.

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• Karuizawa The Water of Life Single Cask #7417 35 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $17999. 00

  Bottle

  $215988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 55%

  Here's another chance at one of the rarest and most desirable whiskies on planet earth: An astonishing Karuizawa has arrived - this time drawn from a single single sherry butt and aged for 35 years. Sub titled "The Water of Life" in Chinese text on the front label and usually available via ballot only, it ranks amongst the world’s most collectable wood-aged spirits. We have one only of the 473 bottles that were drawn from cask #7417 in 2015. It comes beautifully packaged in a heavy decanter style bottle and black wooden presentation case. Excellent condition. 55% Alc./Vol.

  Japanese whiskies have been delivering remarkable returns compared with other segments, and the most sought after of all are the whiskies from the now silent Karuizawa distillery. As one of the top performers on the UK auction scene in recent years, this bottle represents an opportunity to secure a piece of Japanese distilling history. It's ironic that the vision and persistence of Karuizawa's proprietors was commercially unsustainable during its operation. The cult distillery ceased production in 2000 and completely closed in 2011.

  Delivery Information
• Karuizawa Golden Geisha Sherry Cask #3667 Cask Strength 31 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $11999. 00

  Bottle

  $143988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 59.4%

  A new high point in our collection of old and rare Japanese whiskies is this spectacular Karuizawa, drawn from a sherry cask and aged for 31 years. Bottled by Elixir Distillers, and usually available via ballot only, it ranks amongst the world’s rarest whiskies. We have bottle number 60 of 255. Comes beautifully packaged in a decanter style bottle and etched wooden presentation case. Bottle in excellent condition.
  Note: the lid to the box does not close perfectly. 59.4% Alc./Vol. One only.

  Japanese whiskies have been delivering remarkable returns compared with other segments, and the most sought after of all are the whiskies from the now silent Karuizawa distillery. As one of the top performers on the UK auction scene in recent years, this bottle represents an opportunity to secure a piece of Japanese distilling history. Karuizawa's preference for only using sherry casks (though not exclusively) helped build its reputation, and there have been a number of single cask bottlings in this sherry-led style. This matches their flavoursome spirit, made using only Golden Promise barley (as Macallan once did), all shipped from Simpson’s of Berwick. Since the mid-nineties Karuizawa was unpeated. It's ironic that the vision and persistence of its proprietors was commercially unsustainable during its operation. The cult distillery ceased production in 2000 and completely closed in 2011.

  Delivery Information
• Karuizawa 12 Year Old Pure Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml) - No Box

  JAPAN

  $1499. 00

  Bottle

  $17988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 40%

  This item comes without a box.

  Japanese whiskies have been delivering remarkable returns compared with other segments, and the most sought after of all are the whiskies from the now silent Karuizawa distillery. As one of the top performers on the UK auction scene in recent years, this bottle represents an opportunity to secure a piece of Japanese distilling history. One only to sell. Overall excellent condition. 40% Alc./Vol.

  Karuizawa's preference for only using sherry casks (though not exclusively) helped build its reputation, and there have been a number of single cask bottlings in this sherry-led style. This matches their flavoursome spirit, made using only Golden Promise barley (as Macallan once did), all shipped from Simpson’s of Berwick. Since the mid-nineties Karuizawa was unpeated. It's ironic that the vision and persistence of its proprietors was commercially unsustainable during its operation. The cult distillery ceased production in 2000 and completely closed in 2011.

  Delivery Information
• Kirin Fuji Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $180. 00

  Bottle

  $2160.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 46%

  Fuji Gotemba has won numerous awards including Japanese Whisky of the Year, World's Best Grain Whisky and numerous Gold Medals. As it celebrates its 50th anniversary it's finally expanding into export markets and launching new products. For this release, Fuji have employed ex-Bourbon, French oak red wine barriques and beer casks. The combination adds Master Blender, Jota Tanaka's signature stamp of layered complexity. 46% Alc./Vol.

  Gold Medal at the International Spirits Challenge 2023.

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• Kirin Fuji Sanroku 18 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $999. 00

  Bottle

  $11988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 43%

  As Kirin owns Four Roses in Kentucky, quality x Bourbon casks dominate their maturations, which makes this limited edition a little unusual. Released around 2016 and now hard-to-find, the whisky was finished in x Oloroso sherry casks. The label says ‘Blended and Bottled by Kirin’, not ‘distilled’… so it may contain an imported element. Regardless, the malt content is typically high in these bottlings. Similar Kirin limited editions have been runs of around 3000 bottles. Expect the same here. One only. 43% Alc./Vol.

  Almost unknown outside of Japan, Fuji Sanroku which means "at the foot of Mount Fuji", is produced in Fuji Gotemba distillery, opened in 1973 and owned by the Kirin Group. As iconic locations go, it's hard to beat this distillery's picturesque environ. The water source is rain and melted snow from the top of Mount Fuji.

  While the focus is on grain whisky, a quantity of malt whisky is also produced and marketed under various labels (Gotemba & Sanroku), as well as making up a component of the Kirin blended whiskies. The less expensive ''Fuji Gotemba'' label contains only 18 year old malt, while ''Sanroku'' reputedly contains malt up to 24 years of age (malts are aged by their youngest component), hence the higher price tag.

  Delivery Information
• Kirin Fuji Gotemba Small Batch 17 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $1499. 00

  Bottle

  $17988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 46%

  A relatively hard to find Japanese single malt, produced at Fuji Gotemba distillery, owned by the Kirin Group. Jim Murray described the 15YO expression as "...quality malt of great poise.", so expect good things here. Very limited stocks.

  More notes from Stefan Van Eycken at Nonjatta.com as follows... Fuji Gotemba Distillery seems to have shifted gears as far as new releases is concerned...Bottled at 46% (not vatting strength, unfortunately), this continues the recent allergy to single cask releases among Japanese whisky producers. Whereas, as recently as two years ago, you could purchase a single cask Japanese whisky any day of the week pretty much anywhere in the country, the big boys (Suntory, Nikka and Kirin) seem to have made up their mind that single casks are not worth the hassle and that the smallest they will do is a ‘small batch’ release (vague as that descriptor is). The immediate reaction today of whisky fans in Japan was that both of these Small Batch releases are priced way too high. FB was buzzing with complaints that it is no longer feasible for the average Japanese whisky fan to buy Japanese whiskies.

  Delivery Information
• Kirin Fuji Sanroku Signature Blend Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $199. 00

  Bottle

  $2388.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 50%

  Gold Medal - World Whisky Awards 2018.

  Following the massively successful 'Fuji Sanroku Tarujuku 50', comes this "Signature Blend", also one of the few Japanese whiskies to be bottled non chill filtered and at high strength - 50% ABV. Launched in Japan earlier in 2018 as a premium label, it was available at the Fuji Gotemba Distillery or via Kirin's Drinx webstore exclusively.

  Along with Asahi, Kirin has been a late comer to the whisky scene. Fuji Gotemba was opened in 1973 as a joint venture between Seagrams and Chivas Brothers and didn't release a whisky until 2004. While Suntory and Nikka continue to dominate, Kirin has demonstrated a commitment to high quality from the get-go. Chief blender, Jota Tanaka, makes the most of a sophisticated facility, recently winning World's Best Grain at the World Whisky Awards, followed by a Gold Medal for the Signature Edition in 2018. A small quantity has landed in Australia. This has been summed up as a robust, fruity malt with a whisper of smoke.

  Other reviews... Fuji-Gotemba Distillery’s talent for grain whisky is evident here, with a nose of waxy green leaves, whole peppercorn, and fleeting glimpses of lemon peel, lime zest, and white peach amid the airy, floral top notes. It has a serene, calming quality to it. Spicy pepper, orange peel, mouth-coating vanilla, creamy toffee, and crunchy apple, with a clean finish, like orange flesh laid out on hot stones. 90 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick.

  Delivery Information
• Kirin Fuji Sanroku 18 Year Old Small Batch 2016 Release Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $899. 00

  Bottle

  $10788.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 43%

  A winner at the World Whisky Awards in 2017 and 2018, these annual 'small batch' releases from Kirin have become the pride of the distillery and are now quite sought after. For the 2016 bottling the composition isn't stated, however around 10% of the malt content is reported to be at least twenty years old. One only to sell. 43% Alc./Vol.

  Delivery Information
• Kirin Fuji Sanroku 18 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $799. 00

  Bottle

  $9588.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 43%

  Almost unknown outside of Japan, Fuji Sanroku which means "at the foot of Mount Fuji", is produced in Fuji Gotemba distillery, opened in 1973 and owned by the Kirin Group. As iconic locations go, it's hard to beat this distillery's picturesque environ. The water source is rain and melted snow from the top of Mount Fuji. Maturation typically takes place in x-Bourbon barrels.

  While the focus is on grain whisky, a quantity of malt whisky is also produced and marketed under various labels (Gotemba & Sanroku), as well as making up a component of the Kirin blended whiskies. The less expensive ''Fuji Gotemba'' label contains only 18 year old malt, while ''Sanroku'' reputedly contains malt up to 24 years of age (malts are aged by their youngest component), hence the higher price tag.

  Normally only available in Japan, we've just received a very limited quantity. 43% Alc./Vol.

  No tasting notes available.

  Delivery Information
• Kirin Small Batch 25 Year Old Single Grain Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $1999. 00

  Bottle

  $23988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 46%

  Almost unknown outside of Japan, Kirin's Single Grain is produced at the Fuji Gotemba distillery, opened in 1973 and owned by the Kirin Group. As iconic locations go, it's hard to beat this distillery's picturesque environ. The water source is rain and melted snow from the top of Mount Fuji. Maturation typically takes place in x-Bourbon barrels, and the focus here is on grain whisky.

  Released in February 2015, and produced via continuous still distillation followed by a second distillation in a kettle / doubler, this very rare 25 year old was bottled non-chill filtered at 46% ABV. One bottle only to sell.

  Other reviews... Gold medal at the International Spirits Challenge 2015.

  Delivery Information
• Kirin Fuji Sanroku 18 Year Old Small Batch 2018 Release Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $799. 00

  Bottle

  $9588.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 43%

  A winner at the World Whisky Awards in 2018, these annual 'small batch' releases from Kirin have become the pride of the distillery and are now quite sought after. For the 2018 bottling the composition isn't stated, however around 10% of the malt content is reported to be at least twenty years old.

  Other reviews... A little joy from Mount Fuji: soy sauce, five-spice powder, grilled pineapple, halved passion fruit, and the umami sensation of slightly salty umeboshi. It’s dense and mouth-coating, with maple syrup, cinnamon, and a steady build of rye spices, particularly nutmeg and clove, before closing off with dark baked orange. The spices are short lasting, but the pleasurably deep boiled orange candy sweetness persists for minutes.
  90 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Spring 2018)

  A really well-made whisky which is perfectly balanced. Notes of vanilla and hazelnut on the palate that give way to a long, winey finish.
  World Whisky Awards Best Japanese Limited Edition Blended Whisky.

  Delivery Information
• • 92
  • 93

  • Reduced

  Kirin Fuji Sanroku Tarujuku 50 Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  Reduced from $150.00

  $129. 99

  Bottle

  $1559.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 50%

  Officially discontinued.
  This is likely to be our last shipment, so get it while you can.
  
  

  Note: Labels have some minor scuffing.

  "Sales of this whisky have been so strong that Kirin now says that it will run out of stock following its upcoming late-March shipments to suppliers. The company has stated that this will not be a temporary hiatus, but an official retiring of the product due to a lack of raw materials, so if you’re keen to score a bottle, now is the time... Sales of the more expensive substitute will continue as normal."- soranews24.com

  A Japanese exclusive, this high ABV bottling from Kirin was launched in March 2016. The blend features medium and heavy-type grain whiskies combined with a minor peated malt component. Chief blender, Jota Tanaka also decided to bottle this non-chill filtered and at 50%. According to Nonjatta, "The new ‘Fujisanroku 50°C’ is the first generally and permanently available, entry-level NC Japanese blended whisky that is not chill-filtered. A bold move but one that, we are sure, will pay off. It sure does for us drinkers… the first sip you take, you know!"

  Almost unknown outside of Japan, Fuji Sanroku which means "at the foot of Mount Fuji", is produced in Fuji Gotemba distillery, opened in 1973 and owned by the Kirin Group. As iconic locations go, it's hard to beat this distillery's picturesque environ. The water source is rain and melted snow from the top of Mount Fuji. Maturation typically takes place in x-Bourbon barrels. While the focus is on grain whisky, a quantity of malt whisky is also produced and marketed under various labels (Gotemba & Sanroku), as well as making up a component of the Kirin blended whiskies. 

  Tasting note: Brilliant deep gold. Opening sniffs suggest apple strudel, stewed pear, bubble gum and vanilla. Air contact adds hints of ripe corn / mixed grains. Understated on entry building to a juicy, vibrant, bourbonesque profile with creamy flavours of toffee apple, salted corn cob and pepper. Concludes semi-sweet, spicy but well balanced with orchard fruits, gobstopper and lingering creaminess. 50% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... A blend not afraid to make a statement and does so boldly. A sheer joy!

  93 points- Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2017 

  ...Jota Tanaka, Kirin’s chief blender, utilizes all the versatility of the complex production at Fuji Gotemba Distillery to create this truly superb non-chill filtered whisky. The dark vanilla, toffee brittle, macadamia nuts, heady incense, and singed oak have instant appeal. Sweet popcorn smothered in milk chocolate rotates through cherry, damson, and red apple, settling on a palate of toffee apple spiked with pepper and licorice. Tingling spices on a drying finish. 92 points
  - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Fall 2017)

  Delivery Information
• Kujira Ryukyu 20 Year Old Single Grain Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $550. 00

  Bottle

  $6600.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 43%

  Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
  A big age statement for Japanese single grain, with critical acclaim to match. Unusually, this example is produced from the best quality Indica rice and Okinawa’s unique black koji. Distinguishing itself from its malt counterparts, it makes for a refreshing alternative in its category. A venture jointly launched by distillers in Okinawa, Kujira whiskies are aged on the Ryukyu Islands, a subtropical archipelago at the southernmost tip of Japan. Its all-year-round hot and humid climate accelerates the maturation of whisky several times faster than in a temperate climate. Kujira means “whale” in Japanese. The whale is a symbol of generosity and peace. Long plagued by war, the Ryukyu Islanders consider the whale, the largest creature in nature and prolific in the Pacific waters surrounding the island, as the guardian of peace and nature.

  Other reviews... Toasted cereal grains are pleasantly buttery on the nose. Supple and smooth in the mouth, there are notes of salted caramel, pastry crust, and honeyed oats. Flavors of brown butter balance out the sweet grains for a full flavored sip. 93 points / Excellent, Highly Recommended - Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2019

  Double Gold (CWSA 2020 Best Value)

  Gold Medal (ISC 2020)
  Gold Medal (76th WSWA, 2019)

  Delivery Information
• Kumano Mizunara Finish Blended Malt Japanese Whisky (500ml)

  Wakayama, JAPAN

  $99. 99

  Bottle

  $1199.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 43%

  A blend of malts created from two components - Japanese whiskies matured in French oak casks and Scottish whiskies drawn from ex-Bourbon barrels. The two were married and finished in Mizunara casks, the indigenous oak of Japan.

  Notes from the producers... Nose: coconut macaron, mango, chamomile, white sandalwood, cantaloupe. Palate: chestnut, salted plum, apricot, ginger, kumquat. Finish: white pepper, vanilla pod, subtle hinoki (Japanese cypress). 43% Alc./Vol.

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• Shinshu Mars Distillery Kasei Blended Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $125. 00

  Bottle

  $1500.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 40%

  Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
  
  Kasei, meaning Mars in Japanese, has been made to exemplify Shinshu Mars' whisky making style. At almost 800 meters above sea level, it is Japan's highest distillery and, therefore, nearest to its namesake, Mars. Consisting of both malt and grain whiskies, expect some light and spritzy white fruit character with some softening vanilla and a whiff of smoke around the edges.

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• 2014 Shinshu Mars Distillery Komagatake Double Cellars 5 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $299. 00

  Bottle

  $3588.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 47%

  Once again, we have a very small volume of this "Double Cellars" release from the Mars Shinshu distillery. It was initially matured in their Shinshu aging cellar in American White oak and x Sherry casks after which is was sent off to the company’s maturation halls on the small island of Yakushima for further aging in x Bourbon barrels. Located off the south of mainland Japan, the island provides a warmer ageing environment. Finally bottled in 2019, the resulting malt is described as having aromas and flavours of apricot, plum and bitter chocolate, with good acidity as well as mixed spice and a subtle saltiness. 47% Alc./Vol.

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• 2013 Shinshu Mars Distillery Komagatake Double Cellars 5 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $350. 00

  Bottle

  $4200.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 46%

  Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.

  This "Double Cellars" release was initially matured in their Shinshu aging cellar in an x Bourbon barrel after which is was sent off to the company’s Tsunuki maturation halls for further aging. Bottled 2018.

  Other reviews... A very solid young whisky. I could envisage a few friends polishing off a bottle in a session. I’d call it user friendly. 46% ABV seems spot on for this one.
  - thejapanesewhiskyreview.com

  Delivery Information
• • Reduced

  2020 Mars Tsunuki Distillery Peated Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  Reduced from $299.00

  $250. 00

  Bottle

  $3000.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 50%

  For those new to the Japanese whisky scene, Tsunuki is the second distillery of Mars Whisky, built in 2016 on an historic site in Kagoshima, South Japan. The location is also the birthplace of the parent company, 'Hombo Shuzo' which started over one hundred years ago. This is the second official release after Tsunuki 'The First'. It comes matured in bourbon barrels, but this time aims to showcase a peaty character that was absent from its predecessor, along with honey, barley and crisp apple notes. With an outturn of approximately 15,000 bottles world wide, it comes non chill filtered and bottled at a higher than normal strength of 50% for maximum flavour. Very limited stocks.

  Delivery Information
• Mars Tsunuki Distillery The First Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $499. 00

  Bottle

  $5988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 59%

  Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.

  Collector's alert: Hombo Shuzo have recently launched their first single malt whisky to be produced at the new Tsunuki distillery, located on the island of Kyushu in Southern Japan. Distilled in 2016, a limited parcel has just arrived in Australia. The whisky has been aptly titled ‘The First’ and comes bottled at natural cask strength, unusual for most Japanese whiskies.

  Since 2011, Mars have been making some wonderful blended and single malt whiskies at Shinshu. As whisky consumption and demand for Japanese whisky increased globally, a plan was initiated to establish a distillery in Tsunuki. Production began in 2016.

  Aged onsite for around four years before bottling in 2020, Hombo Kazuto, the President of the parent company, Hombo Shuzo, comments, “This is a young whisky, but I have to say this tastes surprisingly mature. The whisky had been deepened by climate and weather in Tsunuki. The area is surrounded by mountains, and it gets hot in summer and cold in winter. This is just the beginning of Tsunuki single malt, and there is a lot to discover". 59% Alc./Vol. Very limited stocks.

  Delivery Information
• • 94

  • Nick's Import
  • Limit One per customer

  Matsui The San-In ex-Bourbon Barrel Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $140. 00

  Bottle

  $1680.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 43%

  "...truly magnificent... a show stopper in its own right." - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible

  This promises to be another delicious Matsui expression, following on from the hugely successful Mizunara bottling. Created at the Kurayoshi distillery and matured in an ex-bourbon barrel, expect a range of sweet, fruity notes to the lightly spiced spirit. Highest recommendation from Jim Murray below, but sadly, the size of our current shipment will only satisfy a minority. 43% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... Japan goes to Kentucky: the liquorice and tannin would be appreciated by distillers east of the Blue Ridge mountains...; for a blend, the mouthfeel is lush and lingering. The Kentucky style tannins arrive early and then we are thrown into a series of intense "Love Hearts" candy notes - the purple ones in particular. There is a fizzing liveliness to the sugars, sweetened hickory just to round it off; this is truly magnificent. The label promises fruit that doesn't arrive. But it doesn't need it. It's a show stopper in its own right. 94.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

  ...Showing a nose combining earthy aromas of barley cake, toasted walnut, and campfire smoke with more fruit driven notes of ripe apple and dried cherry, this is a complex whisky. On tasting the spirit is light but flavorful and finishes clean and dry. 89 points - Very Good, Strong Recommendation - Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2021

  Gold Medal - San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2020

  Delivery Information
• • 89
  • 92

  • Nick's Import

  Matsui The Peated Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $199. 00

  Bottle

  $2388.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 48%

  No.19 in Whisky Advocate's Top 20 whiskies for 2019.

  The third in a trio of highly praised releases, though youthful, Kurayoshi's whiskies already show off Matsui as a high quality distillate to look out for both now and in the future. 'The Peated' bottling comes in two different labelling designs, one that features Katsushika Hokusai's "The Great Wave" on the front label, and another which is the image shown and thought to be a Japan only edition. We cannot guarantee which will be supplied and will choose at random. 48% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... Kurayoshi Distillery lies between Osaka and Hiroshima in the foothills of Mount Daisen, where it produces single malt whiskies brought to proof with soft, mountain spring water. The label, adorned by Hokusai’s The Great Wave, portends this whisky’s rush of flavor: satisfyingly smoky, with noticeable structure and complexity. Kippers on the nose, with burnt aromatic grasses, cocoa, and jellied fruits, and a smoky palate of red apple, ginger, pepper, orange, and mango. Smoke writhes like a serpent on the finish, sliding off the walls dripping with sweet tropical fruits. 92 points - Jonny McCormick, 2019, whiskyadvocate.com

  ...A degree of sharpness suggests young, as does the pungency of the phenols which possesses an attractive smoked bacon character... a typically idiosyncratic style of peating from this distillery, though the smoke often battles with the sugars as well as the tannin. 89.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

  Delivery Information
• • 92
  • 89

  • Nick's Import

  Matsui Sakura Cask Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $199. 00

  Bottle

  $2388.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 48%

  "Just drips with personality..." - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible.

  There are three NAS whiskies in the new Matsui line up: Mizunara Cask, Peated and Sakura Cask. The latter is arguably the most intriguing of the lot. Cherry wood barrels aren't something you come across everyday. The tree holds an important place in Japanese culture and is often used by Japanese artists as a metaphor for the ephemerality of beauty and life. In this case, the label was painted by Japanese Master, Kikukawa Eizan and alludes to the character imparted by the wood.

  It's reported (but not confirmed) that the casks used here were 'hybrids' - i.e.- the cask heads were removed and replaced with native cherry wood. With just under 4000 bottles produced, its novel character ensures it will be a talking point in any Japanese whisky collection.

  Other reviews... Matured in the wood of the cherry tree, this does impart a spicier than normal intensity, which in itself closes out the barley. Just drips with personality, however. 48% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
  92.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021

  ...A nose of cola gummies, Dr. Pepper, fresh green apple, poached pears in cream, dried strawberry, tree blossom, white pepper, allspice, and mint leaves. This whisky, finished in a cask with Japanese cherrywood heads, begins delicately with sweet fruit syrups, before unwrapping golden caramel with a core of spice. Baked apple notes, strudel, unsweetened citrus, and a tang of bitter fruits, which abate to a mouth-coating finish of orange oil.
  89 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Fall 2019)

  Second place / Best Japanese NAS Whisky - 2019 International Whisky Challenge

  Delivery Information
• • 95
  • 90

  • Nick's Import
  • Reduced

  Matsui Mizunara Cask Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  Reduced from $199.00

  $160. 00

  Bottle

  $1920.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 48%

  Winner: Japanese Single Malt of the Year - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2020.

  Matsui Shuzo, owner of the Kurayoshi whisky brand was established as a schochu distiller in Tottori, Japan back in 1910. Since then, the company has also been sourcing and selling imported age statement malts, but only started to distill whisky in 2017. The Matsui label is their first actual 100% 'Made in Japan' offering.

  This particular expression makes use of Japanese Mizunara oak casks (Quercus mongolica). Suntory began to experiment with the indigenous species after the Second World War when supplies of foreign oak were difficult to source. It made a far from ideal vessel: Mizunara's loose grains tended to cause leakage, and also created challenges in terms of timber selection and cooperage. Blenders at the time had few kind words to say about the wood. It's scarcer than European and American oak, notoriously expensive, and to top it off, the trees are harvested at around 200 years old (compared to around 75 for American/European oak).

  For drinkers, the obvious question is "Does Mizunara oak give a distinctive flavour to whisky?" The consensus is that it tends to offer a more definite coconut aroma. Other sources suggest the wood contributes attractive sandalwood notes. Some bottlings are clearly more successful than others. By all reports, this expression falls into the "success" category in a major way, taking out several accolades since its debut. No doubt, some will just buy it for the beautiful bottle that features Katsushika Hokusai’s Thirty Six Views of Mount Fuji with a fly-by of red-crowned cranes, native to Japan.

  Other reviews... If you want to see why Japanese oak can give the indigenous whisky industry a leg up on their rivals, then it might be worth tracking this down. The flavour profile is really one, to the extent, that you see only in Japan and seems to give an extra sharpness to their malt; as though the colours on the nose and palate are pastel shaded and not just water. A quite beautiful whisky, as elegant and delicate as a demure Japanese girlfriend in a flowing silk kimono. 48% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. 95 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2020

  Very pale, fresh whisky, with lychee, fresh pear, morning dew, apple notes, and just a dash of salt and white pepper. It’s a honeyed and thick dram on the palate, with caramelized apples and tangerine, then late bittersweet citrus that attempts to dampen down the jackhammer of pepper. Enjoyable weight, texture, and flavors, but the mizunara signature notes are a little subtle and underplayed. (3,972 bottles)
  90 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Fall 2019)

  Double Gold award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019

  Delivery Information
• • Discontinued

  Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 25 Year Old Blended Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

  JAPAN

  $4999. 00

  Bottle

  $59988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 43%

  Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor creasing/scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
  
  Purportedly the epitome of Nikka's catalogue, the 25-year-old was made to celebrate Masataka Taketsuru, the original founder of the distillery. Expect some sherry influence with some subtle peat, overlayed by the typical floral notes found in Japanese whisky and then balanced to perfection.
  
  Super rare - first released in 2012, with allocations numbering less than 200 in key markets around the globe. Made with malt whiskies from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries.
  Long discontinued - One only to sell.

  Other reviews... 2017 – ISC Gold Medal

  Delivery Information
• • Discontinued

  Nikka Miyagikyo Fruity & Rich Single Malt Japanese Whisky (500ml)

  JAPAN

  $350. 00

  Bottle

  $4200.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 55%

  Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
  One of three high-strength editions labelled as "Distillery Limited" and originally available via the distillery only. Readers may remember Miyagikyo making headlines in September 2015 when they discontinued their entire range due to stock shortages caused by an unprecedented boom in Japanese whisky. The label returned to market with a single NAS expression. Since then it's been the only official release that's readily available - anything else comes from the secondary market or the distillery direct. If you've been wanting to up the ante and get closer to the 'real' taste of 100% Japanese whisky with no imported additives, this is a perfect opportunity. The 'Key Malts' series lands at a uniform 55% which is considered close enough to cask strength. At the time of writing, prices vary dramatically. In Australia, it's not unusual to pay $450 plus (if you can find them) so the current offer should tempt both drinkers and collectors.

  Miyagikyo is Nikka’s second distillery, opening in 1969. Some commentators still refer to it as Sendai, which was its name before Asahi took control of Nikka in 2001. Founder, Masataka Taketsuru's intention was to expand the variety of malts available for his blends, so from the outset, the aim was to build the polar opposite of Yoichi. He sited Miyagikyo partly because the Hirosegawa and Nikkagawa rivers deliver a high-quality water supply. That combined with Miyagikyo’s different natural environment and the use of steam heat distillation, as opposed to coal and direct flame, results in a malt with a relatively mild and fruity character compared to the more powerful style of its sister distillery. Pot stills at Miyagikyo are considerably bigger too, and include boil balls along with an upward sloping lyne arm. This all contributes to a considerable amount of copper contact, stripping out the heavier compounds and leaving a delicate style of newmake. Finally, more unpeated and lightly peated barley is utilised at Miyagikyo, with the majority imported from Scotland. 'Fruity and Rich' is almost certainly an x-Bourbon cask matured malt, promising a dram with lots of citrus, apple and pear backed up by crisp oak.

  Other reviews... Colour: white wine. Nose: it is very fruity, and even Haribo-ish. A pack of sweets and a little green oak, then liquorice wood, Chinese mushrooms, and wulong tea. I’m sorry but I don’t find this ‘rich’. Unless… With water: goes towards lemon balm and ripe peaches. Still no obvious richness. Mouth (neat): the same pack of jelly babies, bears, and crocodiles, orange drops, and green tea sweets. Ever tried that? In fact there is a feeling of macha, which is troubling, isn’t it. With water: excellent. Rather tropical fruits this time, even bananas. Finish: medium, clean, and indeed very fruity. Melons. Comments: perhaps were the real names lost in translation? What’ sure is that this works very well, even if I found the ‘Malty & Soft’ deeper. 86 points - whiskyfun.com

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