Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama
| Brand | Karuizawa |
| Bottled | 2012 |
| ABVÂ | 46%Â |
| Size | 70cl |
| Classification | World Whisky |
This Karuizawa whisky is named after a nearby active volcano, close to the distillery that has unfortunately been demolished. It is a single malt made from vintages of 1999 and 2000, some of the final batches produced by the distillery. These vintages were aged in European oak sherry casks and then bottled in 2012.
Original price was: $2,600.00.$1,900.00Current price is: $1,900.00.
Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama whisky
Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama: A Rare and Exceptional Japanese Single Malt Whisky Masterpiece. The Karuizawa name carries an aura of greatness and exclusivity within the whisky world. As one of the most renowned and sought-after Japanese distilleries, Karuizawa is revered for its uncompromising commitment to quality, innovative craftsmanship, and the creation of some of the most complex and captivating single malt whiskies on the global stage. The Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama expression is a true testament to the distillery’s enduring legacy and its status as a crown jewel in the Japanese whisky pantheon.
Distilled between 1999 and 2000, this exceptional single malt was meticulously selected from a limited number of casks to create a truly remarkable and exclusive offering. Bottled at cask strength, the Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama showcases the distillery’s unwavering dedication to natural maturation and the art of coaxing out the most nuanced and multi-layered flavor profiles.
On the nose, the whisky presents a captivating array of aromas that transport the senses to a lush, verdant landscape. Ripe, tropical fruits like pineapple and mango mingle with delicate floral notes, evoking a sun-drenched coastal retreat. Underlying these vibrant scents are warm spice accents, such as cinnamon and ginger, adding a comforting and complex layer to the bouquet.
As the whisky graces the palate, it delivers a silky, velvety mouthfeel that coats the tongue with a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and subtly smoky elements. Lush flavors of juicy stone fruits, caramelized sugar, and dark chocolate are complemented by a delicate saltiness and a touch of charred oak, creating a captivating and well-balanced flavor profile.
The finish of the Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama is exceptionally long and elegant, slowly fading with lingering notes of dried herbs, toasted nuts, and a hint of citrus zest. The high cask strength of 59.5% ABV provides an intense yet smooth drinking experience, perfectly balancing the whisky’s potency with its refined and sophisticated character.
With its remarkable depth, complexity, and impeccable balance, the Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama stands as a true masterpiece in the world of Japanese whisky. Its scarcity and exclusivity only add to the allure, making it a highly coveted and prestigious acquisition for the discerning collector or connoisseur.
Whether savored neat, with a splash of water, or in a meticulously crafted cocktail, the Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama offers a transcendent drinking experience that celebrates the unparalleled artistry and craftsmanship of the legendary Karuizawa distillery. This rare and exceptional single malt is a true testament to the enduring legacy of Japanese whisky excellence.
Taste And ABV Of Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama whisky
Appearance: In the glass, the Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama presents a rich, deep amber hue with glimmers of copper and mahogany around the edges. The whisky has a viscous, oily appearance, with well-defined legs that cling to the sides of the glass, hinting at its full-bodied nature.
Nose: The initial aroma of the Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama is captivating and multi-faceted, drawing the senses into a harmonious blend of sweet and savory elements. Ripe tropical fruits, such as pineapple and mango, mingle with delicate floral notes, creating a sun-kissed, almost beachy impression. Underlying these vibrant scents are warm spice accents, including cinnamon, ginger, and a touch of white pepper, adding depth and complexity to the bouquet.
Palate: As the whisky touches the palate, it delivers a remarkably silky, velvety mouthfeel that coats the tongue with a harmonious blend of flavors. The flavor profile unfolds gradually, starting with a burst of luscious stone fruits – think juicy peaches and plums – that are complemented by notes of caramelized sugar and rich, dark chocolate.
The influence of the oak is present but beautifully integrated, contributing nuanced flavors of toasted almonds, toffee, and subtle vanilla. A delicate saltiness emerges, creating a captivating interplay between sweet and savory elements, while a touch of wood smoke adds an intriguing layer of complexity.
Finish: The finish of the Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama is exceptionally long and elegant, slowly fading with lingering notes of dried herbs, roasted nuts, and a hint of citrus zest. The dryness on the palate prevents the whisky from becoming cloying, maintaining a refined and well-balanced character throughout the drinking experience.
Alcohol by Volume (ABV): The Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama boasts an impressive alcohol content of 59.5% ABV. This relatively high proof helps to support the whisky’s rich, complex flavor profile, providing an intense yet smooth drinking experience.
Overall, the Karuizawa 1999-2000 Asama is a true masterclass in Japanese whisky craftsmanship. The extended maturation has allowed the spirit to develop an unparalleled depth of flavor, seamlessly blending the distillery’s signature fruity and floral notes with the influence of the oak. This creates a harmonious and captivating drinking experience that is a testament to the skill and artistry of the Karuizawa distillery.
