Karuizawa 15 years old - Mercian - 700ml

Distillery: Karuizawa
Age: 15 Years Old
ABV: 40.0%
Volume: 70cl
Vintage: Non-Vintage
Condition: Sealed, unopened

Karuizawa, nestled at the foot of Mount Asama in Japan's Nagano Prefecture, was a small, artisanal distillery founded in 1956. It quickly gained a reputation for its meticulous production methods, including the exclusive use of Golden Promise barley and small stills, setting it apart from its larger Japanese counterparts. Despite its closure in 2000 and subsequent dismantling, its finite remaining stock has cemented its status as one of the most revered and valuable names in the world of whisky collecting, with bottles frequently achieving record prices at auction.

This 15 Year Old expression represents an increasingly rare opportunity to acquire an age-stated bottling from the legendary Karuizawa distillery. While specific cask details can vary, many Karuizawa whiskies, including this era, were renowned for their maturation in high-quality sherry casks, imparting a profound depth and complexity. Its limited availability, combined with the distillery's silent status, makes this a highly coveted piece of liquid history, appealing to collectors seeking both exceptional quality and a tangible connection to the golden age of Japanese whisky production.

Tasting Notes:
Colour: Deep amber with reddish hues, reflecting its maturation.
Nose: Rich and complex, with notes of dried fruits, dark chocolate, old leather, and a hint of exotic spices, underpinned by a delicate oak influence.
Palate: Full-bodied and velvety, offering a symphony of stewed plums, figs, candied orange peel, and well-integrated sherry sweetness, balanced by a subtle nuttiness and a touch of tobacco leaf.
Finish: Long and warming, with lingering echoes of dark fruit, cocoa, and a gentle spice, leaving a sophisticated and memorable impression.