Within the Japanese whisky craze washing over the whisky world, Karuizawa has its own kind of crazy. Tulipmania in full bloom.
Here are just two selections of the most recent Karuizawa craziness, off of recent auctions. The first is a bottle released by The Whisky Exchange this past October, one I have tasted and reviewed here:
30 Year Old Sherry Cask 5347
The second, is a crazy reserved for a class of collectors well beyond my scope of comprehension – miniature maniacs:
Yes, You are seeing this right!
The real shame is that what are the chances of you opening a £375 bottle which cost you £3500? Exactly zero!
And thus, the circle of people who actually enjoy this whisky is ever shrinking, as the bottlings become rarer.
When the Scotch Malt Whisky Society got hold of six casks of Karuizawa ranging in age from 29 to 12 years old. The 29 year old was priced at £268, and the youngest of the brood, the 12 year old, was priced at £108. Do you fancy a bottle? you can get one here:
Anybody need new glasses? This price is beyond silly, and at auction you’ll pay around £300 for it…
Did anybody say CRAZY?
Photo Credit: scotchwhiskyauctions.com
Scotch Malt Whisky Society, Cask 132.6 – Karuizawa Distilled 31.12.200, 12 Year Old Refill Sherry Butt, Outturn 553 Bottles (63.0% ABV, NCF, NC)
Appearance: Deep Gold, thin and quick legs.
Nose: Sherry and malt, orange blossom, cinnamon, a hint of a lactic note, hay, dough and grain. Water brings out perfume and citrus flowers.
Palate: Warm cinnamon, orange peel, dark chocolate, allspice, clove and honey.
Linger: Sweet spice on the tongue, sherry dryness, dark chocolate with a very long sweetness on the palate.
Conclusion
This is an intense whisky, with a depth of flavor and aromas. Great cask!