When released in February 2022, this eye-catching edition from the famous Speysider became the distillery's oldest official age-statement. Titled The Reach, the whisky was distilled in 1940 during the early days of the second world war and has seen a lengthy maturation period of 81 years in a single sherry-seasoned cask.
As you would expect, the presentation showcases the highest quality of Scottish craftsmanship. The mouth-blown, glass decanter is displayed on a weighty plinth which was created by Scottish sculptor Saskia Robinson. This artwork features three bronze hands which are each a tribute to three people who helped to create the whisky. These include Master Whisky Maker Kirsteen Campbell, Allan Shiach who is the grandson of Dr. Allan Shiach who ran the distillery in 1940 and the distillery workers of the 1940s themselves.
The decanter and sculptor are housed in a well-crafted cabinet made with wood from a fallen elm tree. This tree is thought to have been on the Macallan Estate in 1940. A beautifully presented book which details the release is also included.
This is one of 288 decanters which also includes a professional flight-case.
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.
Please Note: Due to the size and weight of this total lot, collection is advised. If shipping is required, please contact Whisky Auctioneer to discuss.
Please Note: This lot is not eligible for Whisky Auctioneer storage. The winning bidder must arrange for collection within 7 days of purchase.
Macallan 1950 Tales of The Macallan Lalique Decanter / Volume I
Volume I - The Laird of Easter Elchies (1659-1715)
Released in late 2021, this is the first edition in the Tales of The Macallan series. The range celebrates the people and history behind the brand's iconic legacy.
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.
Volume I in the series pays homage to Captain John Grant, who is regarded as Macallan’s first true custodian. Captain John foresaw the potential of the Easter Elchies estate and invested a great amount of time towards refurbishing it and the surrounding land into a working and liveable facility. His investment would be one of the most significant steps towards whisky production eventually taking place at the site.
This single malt was distilled in 1950 and bottled in 2021 by lead whisky maker, Sarah Burgess:
Concealed in an 800-page almanac book, this rare malt is presented in a beautiful handmade decanter produced by long-standing collaborator, master French crystal-maker, Lalique. The book itself is made of fine leather and decorated with gold. The responsibility of printing was handed to Imprimerie du Marais of Paris who used a specially developed paper for the project. While the almanac details the story of Captain John, illustrations by English artist Andrew Davidson are also included. Davidson's previous work has involved postage stamps for the UK's Royal Mail, the Harry Potter book-covers, and the glass doors at Wimbledon's Centre Tennis Court.
Glenturret claims to be one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, although it was dismantled for over 25 years before James Fairlie built a new facility within the walls of the former site in 1959, using old equipment procured from Perthshire neighbours, Tullibardine. Despite using traditional whisky-making methods, the distillery was also a pioneer, opening Scotland’s second ever visitor centre in 1981. It was then transformed into the home of The Famous Grouse by Edrington in 2002, before changing hands again in 2018 when it was bought by the owner of Lalique crystal. With former Macallan whisky maker, Bob Dalgarno at the helm, the new ownership relaunched the Glenturret single malt brand in 2020 with a predictably luxurious new bottle design.
This, the first 50 year old release from Glenturret, was distilled on 25th Febraury 1972 and aged in a single refill sherry cask for 50 years prior to being bottled in 2022.
Presented in a beautiful handmade decanter insipired by barely and designed by Marc Larminaux, Artistic and Creative Director at renowned French crystal-maker, Lalique.
Displayed in a bespoke black case with mother of pearl inlays. This is one of only 150 bottles produced.
Please note due to the additional weight, a four bottle shipping fee shall be applied to this lot.
Karuizawa 1965 Single Bourbon Cask 50 Year Old #8636 / LMDW
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 is one of a trio of 1965 vintage releases produced by Number One Drinks for La Maison Du Whisky in 2015. A 1965 vintage Karuizawa matured in a bourbon cask.
Karuizawa 1971 Noh Single Cask 41 Year Old #1842 / Prineus
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 series features different masks used in Noh, one of Japan's traditional performing arts. This image features the mask of the Noh character, Hannya, a sorrowful female serpent-demon.
This whisky was distilled in 1971 and aged in single ex-Bourbon cask #1842. It was bottled at cask strength in 2013 for German Importer, Prineus.
Suntory are one of the founding fathers of Japanese whisky, established by Shinjirō Torii in 1899 as a wine store in Osaka. The venture was hugely successful, and the company was renamed Kotobukiya in 1921, which built its first distillery three years later, Yamazaki. The distillery produced both malt and grain whiskies which the company blended together, releasing its first Suntory White Label in 1929, the resulting popularity of which saw the firm renamed after it 1963. Expansion in the next decade saw the company move its grain production to a new Chita distillery in 1972, and open a second malt distillery, Hakushu, the following year. Suntory today has a large stake in both the bourbon and Scotch whisky industry, but remains at the forefront of its native whisky market too.
The 35 year old blend is presented within a beautifully decorative handmade ceramic decanter and accompanied by a finely crafted wooden box.
This limited edition bottle was designed for Suntory's Hibiki by Tokuda Yasokichi III.
Karuizawa 1965 Single Sherry Cask 50 Year Old #2372 / LMDW
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 special release is one of a trio of 1965 vintages produced by Number One Drinks for La Maison Du Whisky.
The following lot is for the compete 2022 Time Re-Imagined Collection from Speyside’s Glenfiddich distillery.
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 increible lot includes the following three bottles:
Glenfiddich 30 Year Old Suspended Time 43% 70cl - This 30 year old single malt has been aged in a combination of European and American oak. The bottled is presented in a modern decanter that gives the illusion that it is suspended in mid-air.
Glenfiddich 40 Year Old Cumulative Time 44.6% 70cl - This 40 year old single malt has been aged in a combination of hogshead and ex-Sherry butt casks. The bottled is presented in a handmade jesmonite box, each one unique.
Glenfiddich 50 Year Old Simultaneous Time 43.8% 70cl - This 50 year old single malt is a marriage of three different American oak casks matured in the same warehouse before being finished in more American oak for two years. The bottle is presented in an aluminium box, created in collaboration with data artist Manuel Jiménez Garcia. A metallic flight-case is also included.
NOTE: Due to the size and weight of this lot, it will include a twelve-bottle shipping fee.
Red Hook 23 Year Old Single Barrel Kentucky Rye #2 / LeNell's
In 2007 and 2008, Tonya LeNell Smothers, owner of LeNell's Ltd in Brooklyn, New York met with Drew Kulsveen of Kentucky Bourbon Distillers in Bardstown. Together they selected just four barrels of 23- and 24-year-old rye from the depths of Warehouse G. These casks were individually bottled between 112.8 to 117.6 proof. This example was drawn from barrel #2.
The title Red Hook is taken from a nickname given to the 21,000+ Brooklyn dockworkers who were provided with purpose-build accommodation in the early 20th century. These became known as Red Hook Houses. A total of just 852 bottles were drawn from the four single barrels.
Kentucky Bourbon Distillers are the owners of the Willett distillery in Bardstown. Willett distillery was built in 1936, just a few years after the repeal of National Prohibition by Lambert Willett, a former distiller for Max Selliger & Co. The distillery was initially a success, principally through its Old Bardstown and Johnny Drum brands, however it was hit hard by the bourbon slump of the 1970s. The result was an ill-advised move into producing ethanol for the production of \"gasohol,\" spurred by the 1979 energy crises. When that market re-stabilised, Willett was left floundering and eventually closed in the early 1980s. Lambert's granddaughter, Martha Willett and her husband, Even Kulsveen, then purchased the distillery and established Kentucky Bourbon Distillers in 1984. They originally bottled the remaining barrels of 1970s-distilled stock, however as that gradually diminished, they began sourcing barrels from other producers in order to replenish it, becoming one of the most important independent bottlers in Kentucky. The majority of their barrels were believed to have come from neighbouring Heaven Hill, and with these casks they developed a wealth of important brands, including the Willett Family Estate, Noah's Mill and Rowan's Creek. In addition, they contract-bottled brands for other companies, such as the Very Olde St Nick and Black Maple Hill brands. Revered for the quality of their whiskey, their products have become some of the most collectible to come out of Kentucky. One January 21st, 2012, the company re-opened Willett distillery, and have been slowly replenishing its warehouses with its own whiskey ever since.
Karuizawa 40 Year Old Single Sherry Cask #1650 / Platinum Geisha
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 is one of two sought after Platinum Geisha releases which were available to purchase by winners of a ballot hosted by The Whisky Exchange.
Aged for 40 years in sherry cask #1650, this bottle is number 132 of 227.
Karuizawa 40 Year Old Single Sherry Cask #1650 / Platinum Geisha
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 is one of two sought after Platinum Geisha releases which were available to purchase by winners of a ballot hosted by The Whisky Exchange.
Aged for 40 years in sherry cask #1650, this bottle is number 132 of 227.
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.
Lottas Home 13 Year Old Papa's Private Reserve Rye 1998
Released in 1998, this is one of just 60 bottles of an incredibly rare rye whiskey bottled in Lawrenceburg by the Old Commonwealth Distillery Co for Macha Weine & Feines in Germany. It is named Lottas Home to commemorate the birth of the owner's daughter, Lotta, and the whiskey contained is the same used for the legendary Van Winkle Family Reserve.
At the time this was bottled, the rye used by Old Commonwealth is presumed to have been distilled at Medley in Owensboro.
Karuizawa 1981 Wealth Solutions Sherry Casks 2 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.
Contains.
Karuizawa 1981 Wealth Solutions #4059 This limited release was distilled in 1981 and originally bottled in 2017 by Number One Drinks. This has been rebottled and presented by Wealth Solutions. Produced from single ex-sherry cask #4059. 60.6%
Karuizawa 1981 Wealth Solutions #6183 This limited release was distilled in 1981 and originally bottled in 2017 by Number One Drinks. This has been rebottled and presented by Wealth Solutions. Produced from single ex-sherry cask #6183. 56.5%
A two bottle shipping fee shall be applied to this lot.
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.
The Fine and Rare Series of whiskies was launched in 2002, designed to represent the very best vintages and whisky that Macallan had to offer, dating back as far as 1926.
This one was distilled in 1978 and bottled in 2018, from remade, refill cask #13810.
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.
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.
This 1984 vintage was bottled in 2009 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the launch of the Yamazaki single malt brand.
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 40 year old was launched in October 2020 as part of The Red Collection. The range also includes a 50, 60, 71, 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 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 40 year old was created by Whisky Maker, Kirsteen Campbell.
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 40 year old was launched in October 2020 as part of The Red Collection. The range also includes a 50, 60, 71, 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 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 40 year old was created by Whisky Maker, Kirsteen Campbell.
Karuizawa 31 Year Old Single Sherry Cask #3667 / Golden Geisha
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.
This Karuizawa is one of two highly sought after 'Golden Geisha' releases, which were available to purchase by winners of a ballot hosted by The Whisky Exchange.
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.
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.
Karuizawa 38 Year Old Single Sherry Cask #7582 / Ruby Geisha
A truly incredible release from Elixir Distillers, this 38 year old whisky was released alongside a 34 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 38 years in single ex-Sherry cask #7582.
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.
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.
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 40 year old was launched in October 2020 as part of The Red Collection. The range also includes a 50, 60, 71, 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 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 40 year old was created by Whisky Maker, Kirsteen Campbell.
Macallan James Bond 60th Anniversary Release Decade 1-6 / Globe Trotter with Prints
\"A whisky which celebrates the legacy of 007\"
The following lot is for the complete 2022 James Bond 60th anniversary collection from Macallan. The set is presented in a luxurious travel case produced by Globe Trotter.
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 lot consists of the following:
Macallan James Bond 60th Anniversary Release Decade 1-6 43.7% 6 x 70cl - This is the complete six-bottle series that celebrated the 60th anniversary of the James Bond films in 2022. The packaging of each bottle displays production sketches used throughout the six decades of filmmaking.
Globe Trotter Presentation / Travel Suitcase - Established in 1897, Globe Trotter is a luxury manufacture of travel luggage. They became famous for their high-quality craftsmanship and the use of a patented and sturdy Vulcanised Fibreboard lining in their suitcases; of which this example features. As you would expect, the case is well made and features fine leather tags, straps and strong lockable catches .
Limited Archival Pigment Prints x 6 - These are six beautiful prints that feature the artwork used in the packaging for the James Bond releases. They are printed on smooth fine art paper which is made from 100% cotton (dimensions 60.5 x 41.65 cm)
One of only 300 sets produced.
NOTE: Due to the weight and size of this lot, it will include a eight bottle shipping fee.
Rosebank 21 Year Old Speciality Drinks x 7 / The Roses Edition #1-7
Rosebank is a much-sought after Lowland single malt. The distillery was initially shortlisted by United Distillers as their Lowland entry to the Classic Malts series when it was slated for launch in 1988, but was eventually substituted for Glenkinchie on the belief that it provided better opportunities for tourism. Rosebank was then shut down in 1993, but has recently been acquired by Ian Macleod Distillers, who have a view to resurrecting this classic lost distillery in the near future.
Rosebank 21 Year Old Speciality Drinks / The Roses Edition #1 'True Love' 55.1% 70cl
Rosebank 21 Year Old Speciality Drinks / The Roses Edition #2 'Innocence' 51.6% 70cl
Rosebank 21 Year Old Speciality Drinks / The Roses Edition #3 'Jealousy' 52.5% 70cl
Rosebank 21 Year Old Speciality Drinks / The Roses Edition #4 'Grace' 52.6% 70cl
Rosebank 21 Year Old Speciality Drinks / The Roses Edition #5 'Fascination' 49.5% 70cl
Rosebank 21 Year Old Speciality Drinks / The Roses Edition #6 'Unity' 52.7% 70cl
Rosebank 21 Year Old Speciality Drinks / The Roses Edition #7 'Enchantment' 50.3% 70cl
Speciality Drinks 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 in 2017.
NOTE: This lot will include a seven bottle shipping fee.
Hanyu 1991 Ichiro's Malt 'Card' #371 / Five 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.
Distilled in 1991 and matured in a hogshead #371 before being moved into a Mizunara hogshead for a second maturation period.
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 prior (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 on the 11th of November 1964, this was matured in a bourbon cask for 38 years, this bottle has been presented in a lockable wooden box. Part of a trilogy of releases, the other two being Oloroso and Fino sherry matured.
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.
Karuizawa 1984 Single Sherry Cask 30 Year Old #2030
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 was distilled in 1984 and aged in single ex-Sherry caslk #2030 for 30 years.
Karuizawa 1981 Single Sherry Cask 35 Year Old #6412 / Fazzino
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.
An impressive 2017 bottling, distilled in 1981 and matured exclusively in sherry butt #6412.
The box and bottle bear artwork by renowned 3D artist Fazzino.
Signatory Vintage were established in 1988 by Andrew Symington and are one of Scotland's most prolific independent bottlers. Their offices and bottling facility are located next to Edradour distillery, which they have also owned since 2002.
This whisky was distilled in 1960 and aged in sherry casks for 32 years.
Rosebank is a much-sought after Lowland single malt. The distillery was initially shortlisted by United Distillers as their Lowland entry to the Classic Malts series when it was slated for launch in 1988, but was eventually substituted for Glenkinchie on the belief that it provided better opportunities for tourism. Rosebank was then shut down in 1993, but has recently been acquired by Ian Macleod Distillers, who have a view to resurrecting this classic lost distillery in the near future.
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