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. 

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.

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 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #7427

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 sherry cask #7427 for 35 years.

One of 208 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.

Rémy Martin Louis XIII Black Pearl Baccarat Decanter

A spectacular release from Rémy Martin. This beautiful Baccarat decanter contains liquid which was drawn from a single 100 year-old tiercon (blending) cask. It was made up of small quantities of 1,200 different eaux-de-vie some of which were over 100 years old.

In 1724, a young winegrower named Rémy Martin started to produce cognac under his own name. What started out as a small operation would go on to become one of the most famous names in the history of distilled wines. So successful were his first few decades that he would attract the attention of King Louis XV, who in 1738 personally granted him the incredibly rare permission to plant new vines in recognition of his fine product. After Rémy Martin died in 1773, the family business passed through the hands of several different family members and close associates of the company, before merging with Cointreau in 1990 to form the Remy Cointreau group. Rémy Martin VSOP was launched in 1927 and today remains the best-selling VSOP cognac of all time. At the end of the Second World War a bold decision was made when the then head of the business, André Renaud decides that the house will exclusively produce cognac made from Petite Champagne and Grande Champagne crus only. After almost 300 years of production, today Rémy Martin is one of the most celebrated cognac producers in history and a well-established symbol of luxury.

The Black Pearl Anniversary edition was bottled to celebrate 140 years of the Maison in 2014.

Baccarat Crystal was founded in the commune of the same name in north-eastern France in 1764. The company was given permission to start the manufacture of window panes, mirrors and stemware by King Louis XV, but It wasn't until 1816 when the first crystal oven was installed. For well over 250 years the company is renowned for its high quality and craftsmanship

Decanter 581 of 786.

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.

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.

Ardbeg 1967 Signatory Vintage 28 Year Old / Dark Oloroso Butt #574

You would not think it to see it now, but Ardbeg had a difficult time of it for much of the 20th century. The distillery was bought in a joint venture between Hiram Walker and DCL in 1959, both intending to supply their blends. The subsequent years were very successful, but DCL backed out in 1979 (closing many of their other distilleries a few years later), and Hiram Walker then struggled in the 1980s era oversupply when interest is blended Scotch was waning. They closed it down for the majority of the decade. It re-opened briefly in the 1990s before being revived for good by Glenmorangie plc in 1997. The lack of demand in the period prior to this, thankfully, saw a lot of casks sold to independent bottlers, many of which have gone on to become legendary releases.

This Ardbeg was distilled on 15th February 1967 and matured in single dark Oloroso sherry butt #574 for 28 years. The whisky was then bottled by Signatory Vintage in November 1995. A legendary vintage of Ardbeg, this bottling was awarded a stunning 96 points by WhiskyFun, one of the highest marks ever given to an Ardbeg!

Signatory Vintage were established in 1988 by Andrew Symington and are one of Scotland's most prolific independent bottlers. Their offices and bottling facility are located next to Edradour distillery, which they have also owned since 2002.

One of 488 bottles.

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 1983 Noh Single Sherry Cask 29 Year Old #5322

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, Doji, an innocent young boy with distinctively effeminate appearance.

This limited bottling was distilled in 1983 and bottled in 2013 after 29 years of maturation. Produced from a single sherry hogshead, cask #5322, which yielded only 205 bottles.

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.

Karuizawa 1981 Single Cask #152

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, as well as sherry casks for maturation. The subsequent quality of output saw Karuizawa whisky appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Unfortunatley, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, with Karuizawa being mothballed in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually closing for good in 2011. Despite this setback, the distillery's legacy lives on, partially through its stills that were purchased by 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. Old Karuizawa releases are now among the most prestigious single malts on the planet, with reverence ever growing as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This Karuizawa was distilled in 1981 and aged in single ex-Sherry cask #152 before being bottled in April 2014.

Karuizawa 1980 Single Bourbon Cask 34 Year Old #6476 / Artifices 014 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 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 limited release was distilled in March 1980 and bottled in July 2014 from single ex-bourbon cask #6476.

Selected by La Maison du Whisky, the label on this bottle displays artwork by Hong Kong artist, Warren Khong.

Ardbeg 1973 Kingsbury 27 Year Old

You would not think it to see it now, but Ardbeg had a difficult time of it for much of the 20th century. The distillery was bought in a joint venture between Hiram Walker and DCL in 1959, both intending to supply their blends. The subsequent years were very successful, but DCL backed out in 1979 (closing many of their other distilleries a few years later), and Hiram Walker then struggled in the 1980s era oversupply when interest is blended Scotch was waning. They closed it down for the majority of the decade. It re-opened briefly in the 1990s before being revived for good by Glenmorangie plc in 1997. The lack of demand in the period prior to this, thankfully, saw a lot of casks sold to independent bottlers, many of which have gone on to become legendary releases.

The rising demand for its product in the 1970s meant that Ardbeg was forced to stop using its own malted barley, instead buying it in from the neighbouring Port Ellen maltings. The result was a change in the style and profile of the distillery's whisky, and pre-1974 vintages such as this are incredibly sought after by connoisseurs and collectors alike.

Kingsbury are Japan's most sought after independent bottler. They were founded in 1989 by Eaglesome, the high-end deli in Campbeltown that was purchased by J & A Mitchell & Co of Springbank distillery, and turned into one of the region's finest whisky merchants. They initially bottled Kingsbury's exclusively for the Japanese market, before the label was acquired by native firm, the Japanese Import System. They have released a number of some of the most collectible whiskies, including some classic vintages from Bowmore, and two dark sherry casked Ardbeg.

One of only 228 bottles.

Ardbeg 1967 Signatory Vintage 30 Year Old / Dark Oloroso Butt #1138

You would not think it to see it now, but Ardbeg had a difficult time of it for much of the 20th century. The distillery was bought in a joint venture between Hiram Walker and DCL in 1959, both intending to supply their blends. The subsequent years were very successful, but DCL backed out in 1979 (closing many of their other distilleries a few years later), and Hiram Walker then struggled in the 1980s era oversupply when interest is blended Scotch was waning. They closed it down for the majority of the decade. It re-opened briefly in the 1990s before being revived for good by Glenmorangie plc in 1997. The lack of demand in the period prior to this, thankfully, saw a lot of casks sold to independent bottlers, many of which have gone on to become legendary releases.

The rising demand for its product in the 1970s meant that Ardbeg was forced to stop using its own malted barley, instead buying it in from the neighbouring Port Ellen maltings. The result was a change in the style and profile of the distillery's whisky, and pre-1974 vintages such as this are incredibly sought after by connoisseurs and collectors alike.

This legendary Ardbeg was distilled in March 1967 and matured in single dark Oloroso butt #1138 for 30 years. It was bottled by Signatory Vintage in March 1997.

Signatory Vintage were established in 1988 by Andrew Symington and are one of Scotland's most prolific independent bottlers. Their offices and bottling facility are located next to Edradour distillery, which they have also owned since 2002.

One of 580 bottles.