Karuizawa Asama Single Malt 1999/2000

The iconic Japanese equivalent to esteemed distilleries like Brora, Rosebank, and Port Ellen is the 2001 closed Karuizawa distillery. Bottled in 2012, Asama is a blend of the final vintages. A strong sherry aroma, cedarwood, and traces of turmeric intoxicate the senses, enhanced by complex notes of dried fruits, gunpowder, and strawberries. Upon first tasting, spicy and tangy flavors dominate the palate before Mon Chéri, walnuts, and fruity tartness begin to appear. The finish is persistent, peppery, and semi-dry. A fantastic young single malt that significantly empties your wallet! RATING: 4.0/5.0 stars which equates to 88 points → FIRST-CLASS

It's quite special to sample a vintage whisky from a closed Japanese distillery. If the opportunity arises, try it; there's nothing comparable to Karuizawa available today. NOSE: Cigar smoke, rich, heavy dates and plums. The rancio is mild, akin to a damp cigar. PALATE: Deep, impactful flavors of plum jam and barbecue char, intense ginger spice, concluding with cigar fumes. OVERALL: It was remarkably ahead of its time in 1999-2000, as heavy sherry with peat is now fashionable. Imagine a Japanese interpretation of a sherry Islay, harmoniously crafted while retaining a bold character. It's truly magnificent!