December 2021 Auction

Yamazaki 55 Year Old 2021 Release

In the early months of 2020, Beam Suntory quietly stated that a \"phenomenal expression\" could be expected later that same year. When it finally premiered, this unprecedented release became the oldest Japanese single malt ever bottled.

Suntory’s flagship distillery, Yamazaki was founded by Shinjiro Torii in 1923. The town of Yamazaki was chosen to be the site of Japan’s first commercial distillery due to its very ‘Scottish’ climate, and with it being an area where three rivers converge. In its early days, Yamazaki produced both malt and grain for Suntory's blends, but the opening of the Chita distillery in 1972 allowed the company to focus on its single malt brand. It is now one of the world's most desirable. The first spirit ran from the stills in 1924, on 11th November at 11:11am.

The Yamazaki 55 year old is a vatting of two casks: a 1960-vintage mizunara oak and a 1964-vintage white oak. The 1960-vintage was distilled by founder Shinjiro Torii and the 1964-vintage represents the year his son, Keizo Saji, succeeded him as second-generation Master Blender. Over half a century of maturation later, the casks were carefully married together by current and fifth Master Blender, Shinji Fukuyo.

As you would expect, the presentation showcases the highest quality of Japanese craftsmanship. The \"55\" emblazoned on the crystal bottle is decorated with maki-e, the traditional Japanese technique of sprinkling gold powder on lacquerware. The handcrafted box is made of Japanese mizunara wood which is finished in a traditional style. The mouth of the bottle is wrapped in a layer of ink-black washi paper strewn with gold flakes whist a cord braided from 24 ink-black, gold, and silver strands hold the wrapping in place.

When it came to distribution in mid-2020, it was decided that the first 100 bottles would be sold exclusively in Japan via lottery. Over a year later, a second release of another 100 bottles were made available to other markets around the world.

This particular bottle is one of second 100 and unlike those sold in Japan in 2020, they are not engraved with the buyers name. 

Alongside the 70cl bottle is a beautifully presented book which details the whisky.

• Please Note: This lot is not eligible for Whisky Auctioneer storage. The winning bidder must arrange for collection within 7 days of purchase.

Springbank 1919 50 Year Old

If you had propositioned the rarity of this whisky at the time when it was distilled, you would find have found few who would entertain such a fanciful notion. Although 1919 was approaching the end of the Campbeltown distilling heyday, it was still very much a powerhouse region in its prime. When Alfred Barnard visited Campbeltown in 1885, he counted no fewer than 21 distilleries, all but one of which were in the town itself.

Sadly this was not to last. Campbeltown had once thrived on its perfect cocktail of proximity to coal, a good water source and fertile barley farms, all within an 8 mile radius. Its coastal location on the Kintyre peninsula also served it lavishly, allowing easy import of peat and barley from the Western Isles and Ireland, and an unrivalled proximity to export markets in the US. Sadly, this latter hand was to take back all that it had given. So strong was the Campbeltown distilling industry that it was able to survive the enforced closures of the first world war, but it was no match for Prohibition, a two-headed snake that eliminated both a key market, but perhaps crucially, a supply of used bourbon casks.

The Volstead Act of 1920, which banned the production, sale and consumption of alcohol in the US, partnered with the closure of the Drumlemble coal mine and a loss of favour among blenders for the traditional Campbeltown whisky character, created a perfect storm which saw off 17 of the region’s distilleries in the 1920s.

Springbank, thankfully, was one of the two eventual survivors. While the distillery today reserves all of its production for single malt, this was not always the case, and it is close to miraculous that a vintage like this was still warehoused by the time it was bottled in 1970. This whisky survived not only a long period where the single malt category was an unfashionable corner of whisky, but an era when its entire industry seemed to be collapsing around it, seeing more whisky dumped into Campbeltown Loch than actually bottled. With a 10 year old age-statement this would have been impressive, at 50 years old this is unprecedented. At an elusive 24 bottles, this is a crown jewel for any whisky collector.

Bottle 12 of 24.

Please Note: This lot is not eligible for Whisky Auctioneer storage. The winning bidder must arrange for collection within 7 days of purchase.

Macallan 72 Year Old Lalique Genesis Decanter

One of two \"Genesis\" releases bottled in 2018 to celebrate the opening of the brand new Macallan distillery. The first was the infamous Genesis 2018 Release, followed by this, the Spectacular Genesis Decanter.

Presented in a beautiful Lalique crystal decanter, at the time of release, this was the oldest Macallan single malt ever bottled. This was distilled in the 1940s, in period of post-war optimism both in the whisky industry and the world as a whole. Having lay maturing for a staggering 72 years, this was bottled in a year Macallan themselves describe as a \"new dawn,\" representing a new period of optimism for the future with their new, behemoth distillery opening in June that year.

The decanter and its presentation are designed to evoke and celebrate the architecture of the new site:

\"Lalique has captured the character of the new Distillery in crystal, with the horizon of the decanter rising and falling in reflection of the roof line and incorporating the clean lines and natural curves. Each decanter is encased in a bespoke presentation case inspired by the interior of the Distillery, with a curved wooden roof over the decanter, and a footprint taken directly from the circular layout of the three new still houses.\"

It was designed by Burgess Studio, and was handcrafted by Royal Warrant holding cabinet makers, NEJ Stevenson.

One of only 600.

Macallan 55 Year Old Six Pillars Collection / Japan

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.

An incredibly well-aged Macallan, bottled exclusively for the Japanese market.

This 55 year old Japanese Exclusive is part of exclusive Six Pillars Collection, a series of six bottles all denoting a different facet of what Macallan believes sets them apart. This release highlights the Exceptional Oak Casks pillar. The other five are Spiritual Home, Curiously Small Stills, Finest Cut, Natural Colour and Peerless Spirit.

This is one of only 100 bottles .

Please note that this is not a part of the Lalique Six Pillars Collection, and is part of a separate Japanese exclusive series.

Glenfiddich 1937 Rare Collection 64 Year Old

Glenfiddich was an early advocate of the single malt Scotch category, and their faith is rewarded today by being one of the best-selling Scotch brands in the world. The distillery was built by William Grant in 1886, distilling its first spirit on Christmas day the following year. Today it is still part of the family-owned, William Grant & Sons. They became the first distillery to actively market their single malt brand in 1963, and were the first to open their facility to visitors. Glenfiddich was an important trailblazer in the whisky industry, who's contribution cannot be forgotten. The scale of their operation today is a testament to this.

The Rare Collection from Glenfiddich was first introduced in the early 2000s and included a sought-after annual batch release of 40 year old single malt, as well as this 1937 vintage, genuinely one of the world's rarest bottles of single malt. Given that this cask was already 26 years old before the distillery made the decision to market a single malt brand, it is perhaps truly fortuitous that this was allowed to obtain such an advanced age. Or it may be simply testament to its quality that it was deemed to great to be used for any other purpose. Cask #843 was distilled in the same year that King George VI was crowned, and was bottled after a long 64 years of maturation.

When the time came for bottling, the cask produced just 61 full size bottles, and around 500 presentation packs containing 10ml samples.

Macallan 71 Year Old The Red Collection

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.  

This impressive 71 year old was launched in October 2020 as part of The Red Collection. The range also includes a 40, 50, 60, 74 and 78 year old, some of the oldest whisky ever bottled by the distillery. The colour Red has a myriad of significance for Macallan, from its founder's name, Alexander Reid, meaning \"the red one,\" to the label aesthetic being an homage to the oldest vintages bottled from the distillery in the late 1970s and Allan Shiach marking them with red ribbons in the 1980s.

The 71 year old was created by Whisky Maker, Sarah Burgess and is presented in a oak box hand-crafted in the UK using the same European wood used to make Macallan casks. The interior of the box has been upholstered by Bridge of Weir using high quality, sustainably sourced Scottish leather.

Gordon and MacPhail Private Collection 4 x 70cl / includes Press Samples

The following lot is for an extraordinary collection of decanters from Scottish independent bottler, Gordon and MacPhail.

Gordon & MacPhail are one of the largest and most recognisable whisky companies in the world. Although they began distilling at the newly refurbished Benromach distillery in 1998, for most of their history they were an independent bottler. Their labels are recognised by whisky lovers the world over, and their licensed bottlings from distillery's like Macallan and Talisker in the 1970s and 1980s, when the companies were not bottling themselves, are a huge part of the success of those distillers today.

• Glenlivet 1943 Gordon and MacPhail Single Cask #121 49.1% 70cl - This whisky was distilled on 14th January 1943 and aged in single first-fill ex-Sherry hogshead #121. It was bottled on 11th June 2013. Decanter 41 of 42.
• Linkwood 1956 Gordon and MacPhail Single Cask #20 49.4% 70cl - This whisky was distilled on 3rd January 1956 and aged in single first-fill European oak ex-Sherry hogshead #20. It was bottled on 22nd June 2016. Decanter 40 of 56.
• Longmorn 1961 Gordon and MacPhail Single Cask #512 40.8% 70cl - This whisky was distilled on 2nd February 1961 and aged in single first-fill American oak ex-Sherry hogshead #512. It was bottled on 2nd February 2018. Decanter 40 of 100.
• Longmorn 1961 Gordon and MacPhail Single Cask #508 45.0% 70cl - This whisky was distilled on 2nd February 1961 and aged in single first-fill European oak ex-Sherry hogshead #508. It was bottled on 2nd February 2018. Decanter 40 of 100.

Released in extremely small numbers, these beautiful decanters contain some of the rarest stock in the company’s portfolio. Each is displayed in a well-crafted wooden box and is accompanied by a book which details each of the whiskies. The design of each box is a tribute to the river Tay, as is the gold detailing on each bottle. The boxes are also crafted from  different types of wood, all locally sourced from the Tayside area.

Also included:

• Longmorn 1961 Single Cask #508 & #512 Press Pack Samples 40.8%-45.0% 1cl x 2
• Glenlivet 1943 Single Cask #121 Press Pack Sample 49.1% 1cl
• Linkwood 1956 Single Cask #20 Press Pack Sample 49.4% 1cl x 2
• Official paperwork from Gordon & MacPhail regarding the two Longmon 1961 \"Twin\" decanters - Signed by Stephen A M Rankin, Director of Prestige.

Due to the weight and size of this lot, it will include a twenty-four-bottle shipping fee.

Karuizawa 50 Year Old Single Sherry Cask #538 / Water of Life

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed  in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This incredible whisky has been aged for half a century in single ex-Sherry cask #538. It was bottled at cask strength in 2019.

One of 347 bottles.

Bowmore 1961 Bourbon Cask 50 Year Old 

Islay’s oldest working distillery, Bowmore was established in 1779 and is now regarded as one of the most popular malts not only on Islay, but in the whole of Scotland. The distillery was acquired by Stanley P. Morrison in 1963, ushering in an era of iconic single malts, including the legendary Black Bowmore, credited by many as the genesis of whisky collecting, bottled in 1993. The distillery was bought under the control Suntory the year after (they had been stakeholders since 1989), and it remains one of the most collectible brands in Scotch whisky today. Bowmore is one of the few remaining Scottish distilleries to use its own floor maltings, providing them with 40% of their requirements.

The unique microclimate of the No.1 Vaults warehouse at Bowmore distillery means casks share very little with the angels, and has allowed the distillery to bottle some spectacular age-statements over the years. These early Morrison Bowmore era vintages are considered classics.

Distilled way back in 1961, this 50 year old was the oldest publicly available Bowmore ever bottled at the time of release (although there were a few bottles of 54 year old available to procure from the distillery). The spirit was distilled in December of that year and laid down for half a century in two ex-bourbon hogsheads. The \"angel's share\" in these casks left only enough for a limited 200 bottles.

The presentation of this 50 year old celebrates more than just the craftsmanship of whisky. The bottle was hand-blown and engraved by two of Scotland's foremost glass artists, Brodie Nairn and Nichola Burns. The wooden cabinet and stand were carved by acclaimed woodworker Peter Toaig, who used highly-prized burr elm grown in the Scottish Highlands. Finally, the presentation is completed with a solid silver neck collar and 50-year perpetual calendar, allowing you to \"look into the future\" as you savour the past, both fashioned by sixth generation silversmiths, Thomas Fattorini.

One of just 200 bottles.

Hanyu 1991 Ichiro's Malt 'Card' #9001 / 1st Jack of Clubs

Since its stills were turned off in 2000, Hanyu has become one of Japan's most sought after single malts. An economic recession at the turn of the millennium forced the distillery to shut its doors, and the remaining casks of its unblended whisky stock were purchased by Venture Whisky, a firm established by the Hanyu distillery founder's grandson, Ichiro Akuto, in 2004. In 2005 he bottled his first single casks under the Ichiro's Malt label. He later cemented his legacy with the opening of the acclaimed Chichibu distillery, but his finest achievement will surely always be considered to be the Hanyu 'Card' series. The bottles are a collection of 58 releases, each displaying one of 52 playing cards on the label, two jokers, and a second batch of follow up releases to the original 2005 Ace of Spades, Queen of Hearts, King of Diamonds, and Jack of Clubs bottlings. Each unique in its own right, every one of these have become a true collector's piece and an important moment in the history Japanese whisky.

This is the original Jack of Clubs bottling from 2005. Distilled in 1991 and matured in a hogshead before being moved into a American oak sherry butt for a second maturation period.

Bottle number 68 of 124.

Macallan 1967 Down to Work / Peter Blake

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.

Presented in early 2021, Down to Work is the result of the Speyside giant once again collaborating with acclaimed British artist, Sir Peter Blake. Famously the designer of The Beatles iconic Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band record sleeve, he is perhaps best known in the whisky world for labelling 12 bottles of the legendary Macallan 1926: currently the most expensive single malt in history. This is the third time he and The Macallan have worked together. 

Down to Work is an extension of the Anecdotes of Ages collection, which saw Blake produce thirteen bespoke labels to be affixed to a single cask of 1967 vintage Macallan, each depicting important themes from the distillery's history. This one represents the decision to persevere with using sherry-seasoned oak casks in the face of industry and market pressure to compromise. The original hand-created Blake label has been placed in the Macallan archive, and 322 bottles were produced with a digital reproduction of it, this is one of them.

Macallan 1949 Millennium Decanter 50 Year Old

It may be hard to imagine today, but for much of the 20th century, Macallan was primarily a constituent malt in blends. It was not until the 1980s downturn in the market that the distillery decided to focus on its single malt brand. Fortuitously, this coincided with the crest of a wave of enthusiasm for the high quality releases that the distillery had licensed to Campbell, Hope & King and Gordon & MacPhail in the 1960s and 1970s. These remain some of the most collectible on the market. While global single malt sales volume is still lead by Speyside neighbours, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, Macallan is easily the most sought after. So much so in fact, that they had to open a brand new distillery in 2018, a subterranean architectural masterpiece within the Easter Elchies estate, boasting 36 copper pot stills.  

This was released by Macallan to commemorate the turn of the millennium. This whisky is among the most desirable and sought after whiskies on the market, and represents the most luxurious of Macallan, not only in presentation and quality, but also in rarity and age.

This whisky was highly rated by Michael Jackson, the late whisky connoisseur and author, and remains a proud accomplishment of then Master Distiller, David Robertson. Bottled in May 1999, this Macallan 50 years old was crafted by marrying 3 butts that were filled on the same day, 14th January 1949.

Hanyu 1988 Ichiro's Malt 'Card' #9417 / Three of Diamonds

Since its stills were turned off in 2000, Hanyu has become one of Japan's most sought after single malts. An economic recession at the turn of the millennium forced the distillery to shut its doors, and the remaining casks of its unblended whisky stock were purchased by Venture Whisky, a firm established by the Hanyu distillery founder's grandson, Ichiro Akuto, in 2004. In 2005 he bottled his first single casks under the Ichiro's Malt label. He later cemented his legacy with the opening of the acclaimed Chichibu distillery, but his finest achievement will surely always be considered to be the Hanyu 'Card' series. The bottles are a collection of 58 releases, each displaying one of 52 playing cards on the label, two jokers, and a second batch of follow up releases to the original 2005 Ace of Spades, Queen of Hearts, King of Diamonds, and Jack of Clubs bottlings. Each unique in its own right, every one of these have become a true collector's piece and an important moment in the history Japanese whisky.

Distilled in 1988 and bottled in 2007, this was originally matured in a hogshead and then finished in a bourbon barrel.

Bottle number 157 of 273.

Brora 1972 Cask Strength 40 Year Old

Brora distillery (originally known as Clynelish) was built by the Duke of Sutherland in 1819. Prized by blenders, the distillery found itself in the hands of DCL in 1925 when they acquired shareholders, Ainslie & Heilbron and John Walker & Sons. DCL closed the distillery in 1967 after opening a new, larger Clynelish next-door, but re-opened the first site, now renamed as Brora the following year. Bottlings of the whisky it produced between then and its second closure in 1983 are now increasingly sought after. It was never bottled officially as Brora during its years of operation, and the Rare Malts Selection in 1995 were the first distillery bottlings to bear the name. In 2017 it was announced that Diageo planned to re-open this formerly lost gem, and the revived distillery filled its first casks on 19th May 2021.

At time of launch, this was both the most expensive whisky ever released by Diageo and the oldest Brora ever bottled.

Presented in a classic crystal decanter and wooden display case, this is one of only 160 ever produced.

Bowmore 1964 Fino Cask 46 Year Old

Islay’s oldest working distillery, Bowmore was established in 1779 and is now regarded as one of the most popular malts not only on Islay, but in the whole of Scotland. The distillery was acquired by Stanley P. Morrison in 1963, ushering in an era of iconic single malts, including the legendary Black Bowmore, credited by many as the genesis of whisky collecting, bottled in 1993. The distillery was bought under the control Suntory the year after (they had been stakeholders since 1989), and it remains one of the most collectible brands in Scotch whisky today. Bowmore is one of the few remaining Scottish distilleries to use its own floor maltings, providing them with 40% of their requirements.

The unique microclimate of the No.1 Vaults warehouse at Bowmore distillery means casks share very little with the angels, and has allowed the distillery to bottle some spectacular age-statements over the years. These early Morrison Bowmore era vintages are considered classics.

Another spectacular example of the 1964 vintage, this impressive presentation was aged in bourbon casks prior to a finishing period in Fino sherry wood.

Bottle 47 of just 72.

Mortlach 1938 Gordon and MacPhail 70 Year Old Generations

Upon its release in March 2010, this Mortlach was the oldest single malt in the world. It has since only been bettered by releases from Macallan and its Gordon & MacPhail Generations stablemate, the Glenlivet 80-year-old released in 2021.

Mortlach was founded in 1823 and was the first of Dufftown's \"Seven Stills\" to be licensed. It rose to pre-eminence under George Cowie & Son, who's unique distillation regime produced a famously \"meaty\" whisky, which was highly prized by blenders. It was for this reason that it was acquired by John Walker & Sons, and so important to them was it that little stock was left available for bottling as a single malt. The Flora & Fauna release was the first official distillery bottling, but it was not until 2014 that a permanent range was finally added. Thankfully, there have been many spectacular independent labels like this released over the years. 

Gordon & MacPhail were granted a license by DCL to officially bottle Mortlach single malt in the 1970s and 1980s. This long-standing relationship with the distillery has since furnished the Elgin-based independent firm with a steady supply of high-quality casks, and subsequently, high-quality releases.

The fruits of this partnership are in full bloom here, a staggering age statement that was distilled on 15th October 1938 and has been aged in a combination of casks which included a first-fill ex-Sherry hogshead. 

The release was bottled between 54 of these full size decanters, and a further 162 in the 20cl size.

Hanyu 1988 Ichiro's Malt 'Card' #9417 / Three of Diamonds

Since its stills were turned off in 2000, Hanyu has become one of Japan's most sought after single malts. An economic recession at the turn of the millennium forced the distillery to shut its doors, and the remaining casks of its unblended whisky stock were purchased by Venture Whisky, a firm established by the Hanyu distillery founder's grandson, Ichiro Akuto, in 2004. In 2005 he bottled his first single casks under the Ichiro's Malt label. He later cemented his legacy with the opening of the acclaimed Chichibu distillery, but his finest achievement will surely always be considered to be the Hanyu 'Card' series. The bottles are a collection of 58 releases, each displaying one of 52 playing cards on the label, two jokers, and a second batch of follow up releases to the original 2005 Ace of Spades, Queen of Hearts, King of Diamonds, and Jack of Clubs bottlings. Each unique in its own right, every one of these have become a true collector's piece and an important moment in the history Japanese whisky.

Distilled in 1988 and bottled in 2007, this was originally matured in a hogshead and then finished in a bourbon barrel.

Bottle number 221 of 273.

Ardbeg 1965 Cadenhead's 23 Year Old / Mizuhashi Total Liquor Supply

An incredibly rare bottling of Ardbeg, distilled back in 1965 and sherry cask matured for 23 years.

This is part of series of five well-regarded cask selections by Mizuhashi Total Liquor Supply in Japan, all bottled in 1988 and 1989 by Cadenhead's. The series includes another sherry casked single malt, this time from Tamnavulin, as well an a Glendullan, Glen Ord and Glencadam. All were bottled at cask strength.

Serge Valentin of WhiskyFun loved this one, awarding it a princely 97 points, stating, \"an entrancing simplicity, and one of my favourite whiskies ever.\"

You would not think it to see it now, but Ardbeg had a difficult time of it for much of the 20th century. The distillery was bought in a joint venture between Hiram Walker and DCL in 1959, both intending to supply their blends. The subsequent years were very successful, but DCL backed out in 1979 (closing many of their other distilleries a few years later), and Hiram Walker then struggled in the 1980s era oversupply when interest is blended Scotch was waning. They closed it down for the majority of the decade. It re-opened briefly in the 1990s before being revived for good by Glenmorangie plc in 1997. The lack of demand in the period prior to this, thankfully, saw a lot of casks sold to independent bottlers, many of which have gone on to become legendary releases.

The rising demand for its product in the 1970s meant that Ardbeg was forced to stop using its own malted barley, instead buying it in from the neighbouring Port Ellen maltings. The result was a change in the style and profile of the distillery's whisky, and pre-1974 vintages such as this are incredibly sought after by connoisseurs and collectors alike.

Karuizawa 1999-2000 Wealth Solutions Origami Series 5 x 70cl

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed  in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This limited release from Wealth Solutions is a set 5 each with only 22 bottles, a premium repackaging of the 1999-2000 vintage cask strength releases.

There are five 22 bottle sets, and each is adorned with a different origami, in this case a Crane, Boat, Elephant, Hummingbird and Swan.

Hanyu 1985 Ichiro's Malt 'Card' #1024 / The Joker 'Monochrome'

Since its stills were turned off in 2000, Hanyu has become one of Japan's most sought after single malts. An economic recession at the turn of the millennium forced the distillery to shut its doors, and the remaining casks of its unblended whisky stock were purchased by Venture Whisky, a firm established by the Hanyu distillery founder's grandson, Ichiro Akuto, in 2004. In 2005 he bottled his first single casks under the Ichiro's Malt label. He later cemented his legacy with the opening of the acclaimed Chichibu distillery, but his finest achievement will surely always be considered to be the Hanyu 'Card' series. The bottles are a collection of 58 releases, each displaying one of 52 playing cards on the label, two jokers, and a second batch of follow up releases to the original 2005 Ace of Spades, Queen of Hearts, King of Diamonds, and Jack of Clubs bottlings. Each unique in its own right, every one of these have become a true collector's piece and an important moment in the history Japanese whisky.

This is the final bottling in the series and is one of two Jokers released to complete the 58 bottle series; one in colour and one in black and white (monochrome).  This Monochrome Joker is arguably one of the rarest releases from Japan and is a fitting finale for this incredible series of whiskies.

The Monochrome Joker was distilled in 1985 and matured in a hogshead before a second period of maturation in a Mizunara cask #1024.  This is bottle number 229 of 241.

Yamazaki 1993 Single Sherry Cask #3T70070 / LMDW - Bottle No.2

Suntory’s flagship distillery, Yamazaki was founded by Shinjiro Torii in 1923. The town of Yamazaki was chosen to be the site of Japan’s first commercial distillery due to its very ‘Scottish’ climate, and with it being an area where three rivers converge. In its early days, Yamazaki produced both malt and grain for Suntory's blends, but the opening of the Chita distillery in 1972 allowed the company to focus on its single malt brand. It is now one of the world's most desirable. The first spirit ran from the stills in 1924, on 11th November at 11:11am.

Single cask Yamazaki are very rare and hard to find these days. This one was distilled in 1993 and matured in a single sherry butt #3T70070 until bottling in 2012 for La Maison du Whisky in Paris.

Bowmore 1964 Single Cask 35 Year Old #3709 / Oddbins - One of 99 bottles

Islay’s oldest working distillery, Bowmore was established in 1779 and is now regarded as one of the most popular malts not only on Islay, but in the whole of Scotland. The distillery was acquired by Stanley P. Morrison in 1963, ushering in an era of iconic single malts, including the legendary Black Bowmore, credited by many as the genesis of whisky collecting, bottled in 1993. The distillery was bought under the control Suntory the year after (they had been stakeholders since 1989), and it remains one of the most collectible brands in Scotch whisky today. Bowmore is one of the few remaining Scottish distilleries to use its own floor maltings, providing them with 40% of their requirements.

The unique microclimate of the No.1 Vaults warehouse at Bowmore distillery means casks share very little with the angels, and has allowed the distillery to bottle some spectacular age-statements over the years. These early Morrison Bowmore era vintages are considered classic in the whisky world.

Released for Oddbins in the year 2000, this was bottled from single cask #3709. A sherry hogshead, this was from the same batch of casks as the legendary Black Bowmore series. Unsurprisingly for such a limited release, this is extremely rare. 

One of just 99 bottles.

Karuizawa 34 Year Old Single Sherry Cask #3668 / Ruby Geisha

A truly incredible release from Elixir Distillers, this 34 year old whisky was released alongside a 38 year old version in Autumn 2021. The pair make-up the penultimate release in the Karuizawa Geisha series.

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed  in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This whisky has been aged for a total of 34 years in single ex-Sherry cask #3668.

Originally known as Speciality Drinks, Elixir Distillers was established in 1999 as the independent bottling arm of The Whisky Exchange, which launched its online retail site the same year. Their first bottlings were under the Single Malts of Scotland label in 2005, followed by the Elements of Islay range and Port Askaig single malt brand in 2006 and 2009, respectively. The company was renamed Elixir Distillers as of 2017.

Bottle number 87 of 247 released.

Hanyu 1988 Ichiro's Malt 'Card' #7003 / Queen Of Clubs

Since its stills were turned off in 2000, Hanyu has become one of Japan's most sought after single malts. An economic recession at the turn of the millennium forced the distillery to shut its doors, and the remaining casks of its unblended whisky stock were purchased by Venture Whisky, a firm established by the Hanyu distillery founder's grandson, Ichiro Akuto, in 2004. In 2005 he bottled his first single casks under the Ichiro's Malt label. He later cemented his legacy with the opening of the acclaimed Chichibu distillery, but his finest achievement will surely always be considered to be the Hanyu 'Card' series. The bottles are a collection of 58 releases, each displaying one of 52 playing cards on the label, two jokers, and a second batch of follow up releases to the original 2005 Ace of Spades, Queen of Hearts, King of Diamonds, and Jack of Clubs bottlings. Each unique in its own right, every one of these have become a true collector's piece and an important moment in the history Japanese whisky.

The Queen of Clubs was distilled in 1988 and bottled in 2008 from cask number #7003.  It was initially matured in hogshead prior to being finished in a new American oak hogshead.

Bottle number 265 of 330. 

Glenfiddich 50 Year Old 1st Edition

This famous bottling of Glenfiddich was bottled in 1991 and limited to an incredible 500 bottles. In the early 1990s one of these bottles officially became the most expensive bottle of whisky ever sold at auction selling for 99,999,999 Lira in an Italian charity auction.

Glenfiddich was an early advocate of the single malt Scotch category, and their faith is rewarded today by being one of the best-selling Scotch brands in the world. The distillery was built by William Grant in 1886, distilling its first spirit on Christmas day the following year. Today it is still part of the family-owned, William Grant & Sons. They became the first distillery to actively market their single malt brand in 1963, and were the first to open their facility to visitors. Glenfiddich was an important trailblazer in the whisky industry, who's contribution cannot be forgotten. The scale of their operation today is a testament to this.

This release was restricted to only nine casks laid down in the 1930s, one cask for each of William Grant's nine children who helped build Glenfiddich distillery into the success that it has become today. The casks, four distilled in 1937, and five in 1939, were vatted on 4th April 1990 in single cask #3034 and married for one year before being bottled on the 26th July 1991.

Each bottle was signed by former Chairman Alexander Grant Gordon, who is also the great-grandson of the company's founder.

Bottle number 132 includes a certificate, stating that the owner of the bottle is to be appointed as a Freeman of Glenfiddich distillery.

Karuizawa 34 Year Old Single Sherry Cask #3668 / Ruby Geisha

A truly incredible release from Elixir Distillers, this 34 year old whisky was released alongside a 38 year old version in Autumn 2021. The pair make-up the penultimate release in the Karuizawa Geisha series.

Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the town of Miyota on the southern slopes of Mount Asama. It began production the following year, producing single malt for the Ocean blends from Daikoku Budoshu. Initially it was difficult for the distillery to obtain malt, but a lift on import restrictions in 1958 meant the distillery was able to experiment with the production of a Speyside-esque product, importing the same golden promise barely used at Macallan, and sherry casks. The subsequent quality of output saw it appearing in Japan as a single malt for the first time in the 1980s. Sadly, the Japanese whisky market was not strong at the time, and Karuizawa was closed  in 2001 by owners, Mercian, and eventually dismantled. Its legacy is lives on however, with its still relocated to other distilleries in Japan, but predominantly in the hugely sought-after single cask releases that began to appear in 2007, from independent bottler, Number One Drinks. It is now one of the most prestige single malts on the planet, the reverence for which only grows as the remaining stock continues to thin.

This whisky has been aged for a total of 34 years in single ex-Sherry cask #3668.

Originally known as Speciality Drinks, Elixir Distillers was established in 1999 as the independent bottling arm of The Whisky Exchange, which launched its online retail site the same year. Their first bottlings were under the Single Malts of Scotland label in 2005, followed by the Elements of Islay range and Port Askaig single malt brand in 2006 and 2009, respectively. The company was renamed Elixir Distillers as of 2017.

Bottle number 109 of 247 released.

Ardbeg 1965

You would not think it to see it now, but Ardbeg had a difficult time of it for much of the 20th century. The distillery was bought in a joint venture between Hiram Walker and DCL in 1959, both intending to supply their blends. The subsequent years were very successful, but DCL backed out in 1979 (closing many of their other distilleries a few years later), and Hiram Walker then struggled in the 1980s era oversupply when interest is blended Scotch was waning. They closed it down for the majority of the decade. It re-opened briefly in the 1990s before being revived for good by Glenmorangie plc in 1997.

This rare, desirable Ardbeg was distilled in 1965 and was drawn from two exceptionally old casks, #3678 and #3679 in 2005. The incredible presentation includes a hand-blown glass bottle with a numbered wax seal, a glass display case with locks and a cleaning set including white cotton gloves.

The rising demand for its product in the 1970s meant that Ardbeg was forced to stop using its own malted barley, instead buying it in from the neighbouring Port Ellen maltings. The result was a change in the style and profile of the distillery's whisky, and pre-1974 vintages such as this are incredibly sought after by connoisseurs and collectors alike.

One of only 261 produced.

Bowmore 1964 White Bowmore 43 Year Old

Islay’s oldest working distillery, Bowmore was established in 1779 and is now regarded as one of the most popular malts not only on Islay, but in the whole of Scotland. The distillery was acquired by Stanley P. Morrison in 1963, ushering in an era of iconic single malts, including the legendary Black Bowmore, credited by many as the genesis of whisky collecting, bottled in 1993. The distillery was bought under the control Suntory the year after (they had been stakeholders since 1989), and it remains one of the most collectible brands in Scotch whisky today. Bowmore is one of the few remaining Scottish distilleries to use its own floor maltings, providing them with 40% of their requirements.

The unique microclimate of the No.1 Vaults warehouse at Bowmore distillery means casks share very little with the angels, and has allowed the distillery to bottle some spectacular age-statements over the years. These early Morrison Bowmore era vintages are considered classic in the whisky world.

This is the second of The Trilogy releases of the famous 1964 vintage. The White Bowmore was matured exclusively in Bourbon casks to create a comparison to the more famous Oloroso Sherry casked Black Bowmore.

One of 732 bottles.

Bowmore 1964 Black Bowmore 42 Year Old

Islay’s oldest working distillery, Bowmore was established in 1779 and is now regarded as one of the most popular malts not only on Islay, but in the whole of Scotland. The distillery was acquired by Stanley P. Morrison in 1963, ushering in an era of iconic single malts, including the legendary Black Bowmore, credited by many as the genesis of whisky collecting, bottled in 1993. The distillery was bought under the control Suntory the year after (they had been stakeholders since 1989), and it remains one of the most collectible brands in Scotch whisky today. Bowmore is one of the few remaining Scottish distilleries to use its own floor maltings, providing them with 40% of their requirements.

The unique microclimate of the No.1 Vaults warehouse at Bowmore distillery means casks share very little with the angels, and has allowed the distillery to bottle some spectacular age-statements over the years. These early Morrison Bowmore era vintages are considered classic in the whisky world.

This is the first of The Trilogy releases from the legendary 1964 Bowmore vintage, officially released in 2007 at 42 years of age.

The Black Bowmore was followed by the slightly older, Gold and White Bowmore.

One of only 827 produced.

Bowmore 1964 Fino Cask 37 Year Old

Islay’s oldest working distillery, Bowmore was established in 1779 and is now regarded as one of the most popular malts not only on Islay, but in the whole of Scotland. The distillery was acquired by Stanley P. Morrison in 1963, ushering in an era of iconic single malts, including the legendary Black Bowmore, credited by many as the genesis of whisky collecting, bottled in 1993. The distillery was bought under the control Suntory the year after (they had been stakeholders since 1989), and it remains one of the most collectible brands in Scotch whisky today. Bowmore is one of the few remaining Scottish distilleries to use its own floor maltings, providing them with 40% of their requirements.

This whisky was distilled on 5th November 1964 and laid to rest in ex-Fino Sherry casks for 37 years before being bottled in 2002.

The bottle is displayed in an individual oak presentation case, hand crafted by the Master Cabinet Makers of Charles Kirkby & Sons of Sheffield, England. Each case has an individually numbered brass plaque which corresponds with the bottle number on the back label. 

One of just 300 produced. 

Bowmore 1964 Oloroso Cask 38 Year Old 

Islay’s oldest working distillery, Bowmore was established in 1779 and is now regarded as one of the most popular malts not only on Islay, but in the whole of Scotland. The distillery was acquired by Stanley P. Morrison in 1963, ushering in an era of iconic single malts, including the legendary Black Bowmore, credited by many as the genesis of whisky collecting, bottled in 1993. The distillery was bought under the control Suntory the year after (they had been stakeholders since 1989), and it remains one of the most collectible brands in Scotch whisky today. Bowmore is one of the few remaining Scottish distilleries to use its own floor maltings, providing them with 40% of their requirements.

The unique microclimate of the No.1 Vaults warehouse at Bowmore distillery means casks share very little with the angels, and has allowed the distillery to bottle some spectacular age-statements over the years. This 38 year old is one of them.

Distilled in 1964, just a year after the Morrison's takeover of the distillery, this is regarded by many as a golden vintage, as are a number from the decade. This release was drawn from the same batch that produced the Black Bowmore, and was part of a trilogy which also contained a bourbon and a Fino sherry cask release.

One of 300 bottles.

Bowmore 1955 40 Year Old

A very old Bowmore put into a bourbon hogshead cask on the 22nd of November 1955, then 20 years later it was transferred into a sherry cask prior to being bottled in 1995. 

The glass decanter was hand crafted by the artists of Caithness Glass, Scotland, each being individually numbered. The presentation case has been hand made from oak by the Master Cabinet Makers of Charles Kirkby & Sons, England. 

As a combination this is an impressive liquid presented in the most elegant of styles. 

The certificate states that this is bottle number 298 of only 306. However, the engraving on the bottom of the bottle states that it is number 286. 

Includes glass stopper, certificate of authenticity and padlock with key.