April 2025 Auction

Karuizawa 1981 Wealth Solutions 35 Year Old 4 x 70cl / Ninja

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This is a special edition collection from Wealth Solutions, celebrating the ancient Japanese legend of the Ninja. The whiskies were originally bottled in 2017 as Noh single casks by Number One Drinks. Bottles from cask #4059 were also used by Wealth Solutions for its Shibari range. 

• Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #6183 / Forest Ninja , 56.5% 70cl
• Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #6183 / Mountain Ninja, 56.5% 70cl
• Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #4059 / Fire Ninja, 60.6% 70cl
• Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #4059 / Wind Ninja , 60.6% 70cl

Each bottle is presented in an ornate wooden box, alongside a small metal ornament.

One of just 17 sets.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry an eight-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 40 Year Old Single Sherry Cask #1650 / Platinum Geisha

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed  in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This is one of two sought after Platinum Geisha releases, which were available to purchase by winners of a ballot hosted by The Whisky Exchange.

Matured for 40 years in sherry cask #1650, this bottle is number 086 of 227. 

Clynelish Cadenhead's 23 Year Old 

A fantastic bottling of Clynelish, bottled by William Cadenhead in 1989. Incredibly rare, the majority of these were re-labelled with the more commonly seen white label by the Italian importer, Sestante.

Clynelish distillery as it is recognised today, was built in 1967 to replace the smaller distillery next-door, which was the original site of that name. The first distillery was closed, but later re-opened, changing its name to Brora (but that’s another story). Clynelish is part of the Diageo stable, having been taken over by DCL in 1912. Despite being an important part of the Johnnie Walker blends, it has long been bottled as a single malt.

Karuizawa 38 Year Old Single Sherry Cask #4365 / Platinum Geisha

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed  in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This is one of two sought-after Platinum Geisha releases, which were available to purchase for winners of a ballot hosted by The Whisky Exchange. The whisky itself was matured for 38 years in single sherry cask #4365.

One of 137 bottles.

Caol Ila 1968 Samaroli Full Proof

Caol Ila distillery was built in 1846 by Hector Henderson, who was bought out from the venture a little over 10 year later by Bulloch Lade. The blending firm merged with DCL (now Diageo) in 1927, who still run the distillery today. In 1972 the original site was demolished and replaced by a new one. When distilling resumed in 1974, Caol Ila was the largest producer of single malt on the Isle of Islay. Despite this, due to its importance in popular blends such as Johnnie Walker, its single malt brand disappeared under United Distillers, and it was not until 2002 that it would return, when the 12 year old was revived by Diageo. The Flora & Fauna release was well-regarded in the meantime, but it was independent releases like this that gave the best opportunity to sample this much-loved single malt.

This fantastic Italian import bottling of Caol Ila was distilled in 1968, prior to the expansion in the early 1970s. This is the only Samaroli bottling from the old version of the distillery and is highly sought after.

Samaroli is perhaps Italy's most revered independent bottler of Scotch whisky. With an impeccable taste in single cask whiskies, and an eye for aesthetics (if not English spelling at times!), he is regarded by many as a visionary. Many of his bottles now occupy deserved spots on the pantheon of whisky greats.

Silvano's early bottlings were filled for him Scotland by R.W. Duthie, a relationship that lasted until the early 1990s. This was bottled by Duthie & Co for Samaroli in 1982.

Cask: Bunnahabhain Moine 2006 Hogshead #800054 / Stored at Inveralmond Bond

This hogshead cask of Bunnahabhain Moine single malt spirit was filled on 1st December 2006 and is currently maturing at a bonded warehouse in Inveralmond, Perth.

The following are the results of a cask regauge on 9th November 2024.

• New Bulk: 184.6 Litre
• Strength: 53.2%
• Regauged Litres of Alcohol: 98.8 

*IMPORTANT NOTICE: This cask will need to be moved from it's current location within 30 days of the auction ending.

The buyer of any cask which is stored at this location must have an existing account with the company that owns the warehouse. Please note that the buyer will also be fully responsible for all fees associated with the transfer of ownership of the cask.

Title of ownership for sold lots shall be passed on to the buyer within 14 days of the receipt of funds PROVIDED THAT a Buyer meets, and can demonstrate they meet, HMRC requirements for owning duty-suspended goods.  In short: a UK resident revenue trader must have a valid Owners of Warehoused Goods Regulations Certificate (“WOWGR”).  A UK resident who is not a revenue trader does not require a WOWGR but must make arrangements with the warehousekeeper storing the cask.  Non-UK residents should appoint a UK Duty Representative to act for them.  Further details and guidance can be found via the below websites.

HMRC Excise Notice 196

HMRC Excise Notice 206

Cask: Island Single Malt 2008 Hogshead #44 / stored at Inveralmond Bond

This island single malt was sourced from one of Scotland's oldest distilleries still in operation, and one famed for its popular Viking aesthetic.

Distilled on 4th December 2008, this whisky is currently maturing in Hogshead #44 at a bonded warehouse in Inveralmond, Perth.

The following are the results of a cask regauge on 7th April 2025:

• Bulk Litres: 230.0
• Strength: 61.20%
• Regauged Litres of Alcohol: 140.7

*IMPORTANT NOTICE: The buyer of any cask which is stored at this location must have an existing account with the company that owns the warehouse. Please note that the buyer will also be fully responsible for all fees associated with the transfer of ownership of the cask.

Title of ownership for sold lots shall be passed on to the buyer within 14 days of the receipt of funds PROVIDED THAT a Buyer meets, and can demonstrate they meet, HMRC requirements for owning duty-suspended goods.  In short: a UK resident revenue trader must have a valid Owners of Warehoused Goods Regulations Certificate (“WOWGR”).  A UK resident who is not a revenue trader does not require a WOWGR but must make arrangements with the warehousekeeper storing the cask.  Non-UK residents should appoint a UK Duty Representative to act for them.  Further details and guidance can be found via the below websites.

HMRC Excise Notice 196

HMRC Excise Notice 206

Cask: Island Single Malt 2008 Hogshead #38 / stored at Inveralmond Bond

This island single malt was sourced from one of Scotland's oldest distilleries still in operation, and one famed for its popular Viking aesthetic.

Distilled on 4th December 2008, this whisky is currently maturing in Hogshead #38 at a bonded warehouse in Inveralmond, Perth.

The following are the results of a cask regauge on 7th April 2025:

• Bulk Litres: 220.8
• Strength: 64.10%
• Regauged Litres of Alcohol: 141.5

*IMPORTANT NOTICE: The buyer of any cask which is stored at this location must have an existing account with the company that owns the warehouse. Please note that the buyer will also be fully responsible for all fees associated with the transfer of ownership of the cask.

Title of ownership for sold lots shall be passed on to the buyer within 14 days of the receipt of funds PROVIDED THAT a Buyer meets, and can demonstrate they meet, HMRC requirements for owning duty-suspended goods.  In short: a UK resident revenue trader must have a valid Owners of Warehoused Goods Regulations Certificate (“WOWGR”).  A UK resident who is not a revenue trader does not require a WOWGR but must make arrangements with the warehousekeeper storing the cask.  Non-UK residents should appoint a UK Duty Representative to act for them.  Further details and guidance can be found via the below websites.

HMRC Excise Notice 196

HMRC Excise Notice 206

Karuizawa 33 Year Old Sherry Cask #3579 / Golden Geisha

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

The two highly sought after Golden Geisha releases were available to purchase by winners of a raffle hosted by The Whisky Exchange.

This was aged for 33 years in single sherry cask #3579, before being bottled at cask strength. 

One of 129 bottles.

Karuizawa 1974 Single Sherry Cask #673 / The Golden Age of Showa

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed  in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1974 and matured in single sherry butt #673. It was bottled in 2020 as part of The Golden Age of Showa series, which is comprised of vintages selected between 1971 and 1974.

One of 178 bottles.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry a four-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #8287 / Splendid Age

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

Released in 2016 & 2017, the Splendid Age Collection from the legendary distillery consisted of a variety of different single cask bottlings. Each release included artwork with titles such as Izumi Shikibu, Iwahashi, Karakoto and Cherry Blossoms at Night in the New Yoshiwara. Each of the bottlings are presented in a well-crafted wooden box.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1981 and matured in single sherry cask #8287 for 35 years. It was bottled as part of the Splendid Age Collection in 2017.

One of 195 bottles.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry a two-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 1974 Single Cask #6115 / The Golden Age of Showa

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1974 and matured in single sherry butt #6115. It was bottled in 2020 as part of The Golden Age of Showa series, which is comprised of vintages selected between 1971 and 1974.

One of 242 bottles.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry a four-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #3515 / Splendid Age

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

Released in 2016 & 2017, the Splendid Age Collection from the legendary distillery consisted of a variety of different single cask bottlings. Each release included artwork with titles such as Izumi Shikibu, Iwahashi, Karakoto and Cherry Blossoms at Night in the New Yoshiwara. Each of the bottlings are presented in a well-crafted wooden box.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1981 and matured in single sherry cask #3515 for 35 years. It was bottled as part of the Splendid Age Collection in 2016.

One of 160 bottles.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry a two-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #2360 / Splendid Age

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

Released in 2016 & 2017, the Splendid Age Collection from the legendary distillery consisted of a variety of different single cask bottlings. Each release included artwork with titles such as Izumi Shikibu, Iwahashi, Karakoto and Cherry Blossoms at Night in the New Yoshiwara. Each of the bottlings are presented in a well-crafted wooden box.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1981 and matured in single sherry cask #2360 for 35 years. It was bottled as part of the Splendid Age Collection in 2016.

One of 226 bottles.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry a two-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 1973 Single Sherry Cask #8847 / The Golden Age of Showa

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed  in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1973 and matured in single sherry butt #8847. It was bottled in 2020 as part of The Golden Age of Showa series, which is comprised of vintages selected between 1971 and 1974.

One of 211 bottles.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry a four-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Bourbon Cask 35 Year Old #8223 / Splendid Age

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

Released in 2016 & 2017, the Splendid Age Collection from the legendary distillery consisted of a variety of different single cask bottlings. Each release included artwork with titles such as Izumi Shikibu, Iwahashi, Karakoto and Cherry Blossoms at Night in the New Yoshiwara. Each of the bottlings are presented in a well-crafted wooden box.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1981 and matured in single bourbon cask #8223 for 35 years. It was bottled as part of the Splendid Age Collection in 2017.

One of 257 bottles.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry a two-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #8090 / Splendid Age

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

Released in 2016 & 2017, the Splendid Age Collection from the legendary distillery consisted of a variety of different single cask bottlings. Each release included artwork with titles such as Izumi Shikibu, Iwahashi, Karakoto and Cherry Blossoms at Night in the New Yoshiwara. Each of the bottlings are presented in a well-crafted wooden box.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1981 and matured in single sherry cask #8090 for 35 years. It was bottled as part of the Splendid Age Collection in 2017.

One of 253 bottles.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry a two-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #8081 / Splendid Age

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

Released in 2016 & 2017, the Splendid Age Collection from the legendary distillery consisted of a variety of different single cask bottlings. Each release included artwork with titles such as Izumi Shikibu, Iwahashi, Karakoto and Cherry Blossoms at Night in the New Yoshiwara. Each of the bottlings are presented in a well-crafted wooden box.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1981 and matured in single sherry cask #8081 for 35 years. It was bottled as part of the Splendid Age Collection in 2017.

One of 178 bottles.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry a two-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #7413 / Splendid Age

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

Released in 2016 & 2017, the Splendid Age Collection from the legendary distillery consisted of a variety of different single cask bottlings. Each release included artwork with titles such as Izumi Shikibu, Iwahashi, Karakoto and Cherry Blossoms at Night in the New Yoshiwara. Each of the bottlings are presented in a well-crafted wooden box.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1981 and matured in single sherry cask #7413 for 35 years. It was bottled as part of the Splendid Age Collection in 2016.

One of 249 bottles.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry a two-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Bourbon Cask 35 Year Old #6478 / Splendid Age

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

Released in 2016 & 2017, the Splendid Age Collection from the legendary distillery consisted of a variety of different single cask bottlings. Each release included artwork with titles such as Izumi Shikibu, Iwahashi, Karakoto and Cherry Blossoms at Night in the New Yoshiwara. Each of the bottlings are presented in a well-crafted wooden box.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1981 and matured in single bourbon cask #6478 for 35 years. It was bottled as part of the Splendid Age Collection in 2017.

One of 367 bottles.

Please note due to the size and weight of this lot, it will carry a two-bottle shipping fee.

Clynelish 1972 Gordon and MacPhail Private Collection

Clynelish distillery as it is recognised today, was built in 1967 to replace the smaller distillery next-door, which was the original site of that name. The first distillery was closed, but later re-opened, changing its name to Brora (but that’s another story). Clynelish is part of the Diageo stable, having been taken over by DCL in 1925. Despite being an important part of the Johnnie Walker blends, it has long been bottled as a single malt.

This Clynelish was distilled in May 1972 and matured in single refill American oak hogshead #5335. It was bottled by Gordon & MacPhail in November 2022 as part of their Private Collection, which replaced the Rare Old range in 2018.

Gordon & MacPhail are one of the largest and most recognisable whisky companies in the world. Although they began distilling at the newly refurbished Benromach distillery in 1998, for most of their history they were an independent bottler. Their labels are recognised by whisky lovers the world over, and their licensed bottlings from distillery's like Macallan and Talisker in the 1970s and 1980s, when the companies were not bottling themselves, are a huge part of the success of those distillers today.

One of 135 bottles. 

Caol Ila 1969 Intertrade 18 Year Old Cask Strength

Intertrade was established in Italy in the early 1980s by Nadi Fiori, the owner of the Taverna degli Artisti bar in Rimini. The company was a collaboration with beer distributors, the Turatello Brothers, and the Intertrade name appears on Fiori's bottlings up to around 1989. Fiori selected his whiskies from the Gordon & MacPhail catalogue, but as a collector himself, and a contemporary of his fellow connoisseur countrymen, Silvano Samaroli and Ernesto Mainardi, he knew the importance striking label designs and requested many of his bottlings at cask strength. Whether under the Intertrade, Turatello or High Spirits banner, Fiori's bottlings are some of the most sought after on the market.

This was distilled in June 1969 and bottled in June 1987.

Caol Ila distillery was built in 1846 by Hector Henderson, who was bought out from the venture a little over 10 year later by Bulloch Lade. The blending firm merged with DCL (now Diageo) in 1927, who still run the distillery today. In 1972 the original site was demolished and replaced by a new one. When distilling resumed in 1974, Caol Ila was the largest producer of single malt on the Isle of Islay. Despite this, due to its importance in popular blends such as Johnnie Walker, its single malt brand disappeared under United Distillers, and it was not until 2002 that it would return, when the 12 year old was revived by Diageo. The Flora & Fauna release was well-regarded in the meantime, but it was independent releases like this that gave the best opportunity to sample this much-loved single malt.

One of 273 bottles.

Karuizawa 1973 Single Sherry Cask #4799 / The Golden Age of Showa

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed  in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1973 and matured in single sherry butt #4799. It was bottled in 2020 as part of The Golden Age of Showa series, which is comprised of vintages selected between 1971 and 1974.

One of 103 bottles.

Clynelish 12 Year Old Ainslie and Heilbron Cask Strength 1969 / Edward and Edward

The original Clynelish distillery was built by the Duke of Sutherland in 1819. Prized by blenders, the distillery found itself in the hands of DCL in 1925 when they acquired shareholders, Ainslie & Heilbron and John Walker & Sons. The distillery remains an important part of Diageo blends to this day, however nowadays it is produced at a new Clynelish, opened by DCL in 1967. The original distillery was briefly run in tandem with new one, known as Clynelish B (and the new one Clynelish A), until being closed down in early 1968. Although operating under the same name, the original Clynelish has a distinct profile, particularly prior to its modernisation in the 1960s. Its single malt is increasingly revered, not least due to its re-opening in 1969 as Brora distillery. Having closed again in 1983, the distillery became legendary in the years that followed, with both original Clynelish and Brora becoming huge collector's items. In 2017 it was announced that Diageo planned to re-open this formerly lost gem.

As was often the case with the distilleries in the DCL portfolio, Clynelish was licensed to one of the blending companies within its portfolio. In this case it was Ainslie & Heilbron, a constituent of whom, James Ainslie & Co, had owned the distillery until 1912. When DCL were succeeded by United Distillers, one of the new company's first orders of business was to regain control of the distribution of its single malts, taking the licenses back from the blending houses. Clynelish single malt was not bottled again until 1991 when it became part of the Flora & Fauna range, and it would not be until 2002 that it was bottled with its own unique brand again.

This rare Ainslie & Heilbron bottling was produced in the 1969 on behalf of the legendary Italian bar owner, Edoardo Giaccone.

Giaccone was something of a trailblazer, and was importing specially bottled official single malts for his bar from the late 1960s, this is one of his earliest. He opened the famous venue in 1958, and it has been called a few different things over the years, including Garten, Edward & Edward (during the period this was imported), and La Taverna del Comandante.

Edoardo set the stage for later legendary bottlers such as Silvano Samaroli, Nadi Fiori and Ernesto Mainardi. Moon Import founder, Pepi Mongiardino said, \"he was the first person I visited\" when he became the distributor for Bruichladdich in 1981. Giaccone did not have any of his own labels or series, but was the first person in Italy to have official bottlings produced exclusively for him. Through his bar, Italy was treated to exclusive releases from Clynelish, Bowmore, Dalmore, Highland Park and even Jack Daniel's.

This 12 year old was bottle at a cask strength of 56.9%, at his request. Clynelish bottled three batches of this for Giaccone in 1969, 1971 and 1973.

Karuizawa 1983 Single Bourbon Cask 30 Year Old #8606 / Geisha Label

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

Ths Karuizawa was distilled in 1983 and matured in single bourbon cask #8606 for 30 years.

This was one of two bottles released alongside each other for The Whisky Show 2013, and exclusive to The Whisky Exchange.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Cask #2077

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1981 and matured in single cask #2077. It was bottled in October 2011.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 33 Year Old #136 / Artifices 009 by Warren Khong

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtaain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This Karuizawa was distilled in March 1981 and matured in single sherry cask #136. It was bottled in July 2014.

This release features the print #060: Artifices 009 by renowned artist, Warren Khong.

Karuizawa 1983 Single Cask #2656 / Geisha Label​

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtaain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This whisky was distilled in 1983 and laid to rest in sherry butt #2656 before being bottled in 2012.

One of 589 bottles.

Karuizawa Noh 27 Year Old Multi-Vintages #1

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This series features different masks used in Noh, one of Japan's traditional performing arts. This image features the mask of the Noh character, Matsukaze, a female ghost who is the central character in a popular Noh play of her name.

This limited multi-vintage release was blended from whiskies distilled in 1981,1982, 1983 & 1984 and bottled in October 2011. Produced from four selected sherry butts and bourbon casks: #6405, #4973, #8184 and #6437.

This release was selected by La Maison Du Whisky.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask #6056 / TWE

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtaain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This limited bottling was distilled in 1981 and bottled in 2013 as an exclusive to The Whisky Exchange.

Produced from single cask #6056, which yielded an unspecified number of bottles. Bottled at cask strength.

Karuizawa 1989 Noh Single Sherry Cask 23 Year Old #7893 / Prineus GmbH

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This Karuizawa was disillted in 1989 and matured in single sherry butt #7893 for 23 years. It was bottled as part of the popular Noh Theatre series in 2013, exclusively for Primeus GmbH in Germany.

One of 302 bottles.

Karuizawa 1984 Single Sherry Cask #3663 / TWE

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1984 and matured in single first-fill Sherry cask #3663. It was bottled in 2013 by Number One Drinks for Speciality Drinks.