Karuizawa Cask Strength
1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Release
Karuizawa Cask Strength
The most collectable name in Japanese whisky, began life as a vineyard, beneath Mount Asama, which was an active volcano. Before the then owners, Daikoku-budoshu, decided to enter the world of whisky in 1955. A brave move given the domestic market was still relatively small and whisky was seen as being of Scottish origin. They looked to Scotland and created a modest-sized distillery that brought together the best of whisky. The emphasis was on quality, using the flavoursome Golden Promise barley that is rarely used today, stills that enhanced the distillate and then predominately sherry maturation, thanks to casks sourced from Spain. A lull in whisky demand prompted the distillery to be closed in 2000, if Japanese whisky was booming as it has been in recent times, Karuizawa would still be in existence. Instead, the remaining casks were purchased by Ichiro Akuto and over the years we’ve seen these hugely collectable releases arrive at retail and vanish soon after.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I bid on the auctions?
Why does the timer extend on a lot?
How do I sell?
The first step is to get your whisky to us. We can help with courier collections, or you can arrange transport yourself. Once at Just Whisky, we’ll handle photography and description of your lots and enter your whisky into our auction. We take payment, then pay you within 14 days of the auction end date.
The first step is to register an account (it takes 60 seconds) and complete our sellers form here.