Karuizawa 1999-2000 Double
Vintage Unique Cuvee

The enduring journey of a vanishing treasure

This exceptionally rare Karuizawa expression, hand-selected by Samaroli and dekantā, reveals a captivating tale within the cask as one of the last remaining whiskies from the iconic, now-closed distillery that harmoniously blends the craft of multiple cultures.

A true work of art, this limited release is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a masterpiece that weaves together the rich legacies of Japan, Italy, and Scotland.

Shop Now

Japan’s most treasured gem

Karuizawa, was a small distillery founded in 1956, known for crafting exquisite, richly sherried single malts often compared to the finest Scotch. In 1972, the distillery introduced its first single malt, but low demand made sustaining the business challenging. Despite growing interest in Japanese whisky, Karuizawa was sadly mothballed in 2000.

By 2013, vintage Karuizawa bottlings began garnering prestigious awards, securing its place as the pinnacle of Japanese whisky. Today, its rare and collectible expressions are among the most coveted, commanding record-breaking prices at auctions and prized for their deep, complex character—true treasures for any whisky connoisseur.

Distillation

Single malt whisky distilled at the old Karuizawa distillery

Maturation

Hogshead – first fill Sherry oloroso

Refined in Scotland in Caol Ila Px Sherry cask

A Rare Expression

Limited Edition Only 122 produced

A moment in history,
never to be replicated

Initially matured in Oloroso sherry hogsheads in Japan, the spirit absorbed the rich, opulent notes of the oak, deepening its complexity. In 2000, two casks were masterfully blended, beginning a long and harmonious marriage. Then, in 2023, the whisky embarked on its final journey to Scotland, where it was elegantly finished in a sherry cask from the esteemed Caol Ila distillery, completing its exquisite evolution.

The result is a sublime fusion of smoky depth and luxurious sweetness, radiating extraordinary complexity at 56.5%.

Tasting Notes

CASSIA BARK

CEDAR FOREST

CINNAMON

COCOA

ORANGE PEEL

SPICES

On the nose

An intensely complex nose offers both fresh and dried florals alongside orange peels, cassia bark, cinnamon and cedar forest.

On the palate

Aged leather and bittersweet cocoa, with an elegant wisp of smoke drifting throughout. A soft, velvety texture holds deep oak spices, rich woods and a pleasing sweetness, alongside that aromatic smoke.

The finish

The long finish acts as a grand finale, with bittersweet notes leaving an enduring impression.

Shop Now

Blending the finest crafts
from across the world

The Karuizawa 1999-2000 Double Vintage Unique Cuvee embodies Japan’s soul, Spanish wood, and Scottish tradition, all meticulously brought together in this special edition.

Combined with a refined touch from renowned bottler Samaroli and the artistry of Murano glass master Simone Cenedese. The design and craftsmanship of this release echo the historic journey of the Jesuits returning to Italy, after their departure from Japan under the reign of the great Shoguns, inspiring a whisky that’s as storied as it is exquisite.

A stunning Italian
presentation

This exquisite whisky is elegantly housed in a hand-blown decanter, masterfully crafted by the renowned Venetian Murano artisan, Simone Cenedese. It embodies a rare and enchanting fusion of cultures, paying tribute to the intrepid adventurers of the past. The narrative beautifully parallels the slow, purposeful journeys of yesteryear with the artful, time-honored process of whisky-making.

Each bottle features a label inspired by traditional Japanese linework, gracefully adorned with 24k gold foil, and is presented in a stunning wooden box crafted from olive wood. A delicate silk tissue completes the presentation — every detail a testament to unparalleled craftsmanship and elegance.

A Distinguished Bottler

Founded in 1968, the legendary independent bottler Samaroli was the first of its kind outside the UK, earning a reputation for excellence and innovation in the world of whisky. Known for meticulously sourcing exceptional spirits, Samaroli’s bottlings are synonymous with the highest quality. Pioneering new trends, they introduced single cask releases, highly limited editions, and high-proof, unchill-filtered whiskies—novelties that transformed the landscape in the 1970s. This special bottling stands as a true embodiment of the esteemed “Samaroli Way”.