When considering vintage whiskey, it’s not only the contents of the bottle that matter. It’s also the tale that the whisky conveys. An exceptional whisky blurs the boundary between beverage and art, converting the blend into a work of art.
Dekantā is a fine Japanese Whisky retailer, that provides heritage, quality, and Japanese values through its products. Honoring the essence of Japanese fine art and craftsmanship, the retailer is offering 50 sets of a limited collection called Acclaim—The Karuizawa Whisky Stage. This rare collection is not a typical ultra-aged Yamazaki expression, as it contains single malt Japanese whiskeys that were distilled between 1999 and 2000 and matured in sherry casks. The spirit had to exhibit the exceptional skills of Japanese distillers that have propelled the industry to global recognition. For any connoisseur, the only logical option was a cask from the renowned Karuizawa Distillery.
Karuizawa was a visionary distillery that started producing single malt whisky before it became popular among the global audience. Unfortunately, the original distillery was shut down in 2011, making the limited quantity of liquid from those initial stills a highly coveted item among collectors and connoisseurs worldwide. Luckily, this collection is now available at Dekantā for enthusiasts who want to be part of this heritage.
David Stanley Hewett, a Karuizawa-based artist, took the lead in designing the collection’s presentation. Combining his ideas and visions with the skilled hands of craftsmen from various parts of Japan, the design celebrates references to Japanese history and traditions. This exceptional collection pays homage to the Samurai code and Japan’s martial heritage, showcasing the principles of bravery, integrity, and self-control that are highly valued in Japanese culture. The whisky was bottled at high ABVs of 60.8 percent, 61.1 percent, and 61.4 percent and is the last of this particular liquid.
Makiyo Masa, the founder, and director of Dekantā is thrilled to be part of the creation of this timeless and collectible piece, bringing this luxurious form of Japanese whisky and art to Dekantā’s best clients. The Karuizawa distillery closed down over two decades ago, but it is being rebuilt in partnership with Dekantā, and new whisky will be produced at some point in the future. The original liquid has become an expensive cult favorite of whisky aficionados, and Japanese whisky fans will soon have the opportunity to try the new spirit to see how it stands up.
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