This special edition of two ‘Five Decades’ whiskies was created to pay tribute to the forever lost legendary Karuizawa distillery.
The history of the Karuizawa distillery dates back to 1955. It was the first distillery in Japan to import ‘Golden Promise’ barley and primarily used sherry casks to mature their whisky, applying Scottish production methods and materials combined with the local climate and resources. This unique approach resulted in an incredible whisky with intense aromatic and taste profiles. This is how a future legend was born.
In the 1960s, the distillery used a mix of local and Scottish ‘Golden Promise’ barley, transitioning to mostly the latter after the 1970s. During this period, the distillery upgraded much of its equipment and increased production capacity by changing distillers from 1977 to 1981. However, despite efforts to promote their single malt whisky in the 1990s, it was too late, and the Karuizawa Distillery was closed on December 31st, 2000.
The Karuizawa Distillery was relatively unknown both in Japan and internationally, leading to financial struggles that eventually led to its closure in 2000, just before the golden era of Japanese whisky. The distillery buildings were sold and dismantled. Similarly to many exceptional artists who gained recognition posthumously, Karuizawa became highly esteemed a few years after its closure. Casks from the distillery, spanning from 1960 to 2000, remain.
KARUIZAWA FIVE DECADES IS A REAL PIECE OF ART, A TRUE MASTERPIECE BOTTLED TO RECREATE ALL THAT WE LOVE ABOUT KARUIZAWA – AN UNRIVALED QUALITY.
THIS EXQUISITE SET CONSISTS OF TWO DISTINCT BLENDS: THE TURTLE – A MIX OF BOURBON AND SHERRY AND THE CRANE – A PURE SHERRY FUSION.
BOTH COMBINE KARUIZAWA WHISKY FROM ALL 5 DECADES AND EMBODY THE UNIQUE FLAVOUR OF JAPANESE MOST BELOVED SPIRIT.
THE CRANE
- Distillery: Karuizawa
- Distillation: 1960-2000
- Bottling year: 2024
- Cask type: sherry
- Limited edition: 158 bottles
- ABV: 59,5%
- Size: 700ml
In Japanese culture, the crane is a symbol of good fortune, longevity, and fidelity. Known as the “bird of happiness,” it is believed to live for a thousand years, making it a powerful emblem of a long and prosperous life. Cranes are often depicted in art, origami, and ceremonies, where they serve as talismans to bring health, happiness, and success. They are commonly gifted to newlyweds to wish them prosperity and a long, harmonious life together. The crane also holds a significant place in Japanese mythology and folklore, often representing peace and hope.
THE TURTLE
- Distillery: Karuizawa
- Distillation: 1960-2000
- Bottling year: 2024
- Cask type: sherry, bourbon
- Limited edition: 158 bottles
- ABV: 54,2%
- Size: 700ml
In Japanese culture, the turtle is a symbol of longevity, stability, and endurance. It is often associated with good fortune and a long life. The turtle is also believed to bring protection and is seen as a guardian spirit. In art and folklore, the turtle is frequently depicted alongside the crane, another symbol of longevity, to represent a harmonious and enduring life. The presence of a turtle in various forms, such as sculptures or paintings, is considered a positive omen and a talisman for a prosperous and healthy life.
