The autumn mist clings to the slopes of Mount Asama as you uncork this extraordinary expression — Karuizawa Tokyo International BarShow 2012 Single Malt Whisky, bottled at cask strength 61.7% ABV from the legendary Japanese distillery that ceased production in 2000. This rare 700ml release represents a marriage of specially selected casks from the 1999 and 2000 vintages, creating a whisky that captures the essence of Japan's most revered closed distillery.

Nestled in the Japanese Alps at 850 meters elevation, Karuizawa Distillery operated from 1955 to 2000, crafting single malts in traditional Scottish style with distinctly Japanese character. The distillery's high-altitude location, pure mountain water, and meticulous attention to small-batch production created whiskies of extraordinary depth and complexity. Each remaining bottle represents a piece of whisky history, as no new Karuizawa will ever be produced.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Mountain pine, dried persimmon, polished cedar, dark chocolate, winter spices
• Palate: Rich umami depth, candied ginger, toasted sesame, aged soy barrel wood, crystallized honey
• Finish: Long and warming with sandalwood incense, green tea leaves, subtle smoke

Product Details

Perfect For

• Collectors: One of the rarest Japanese whiskies from a legendary closed distillery
• Contemplative Sipping: Best enjoyed neat to appreciate its full complexity and history
• Special Occasions: A whisky worthy of life's most meaningful celebrations
• Japanese Whisky Enthusiasts: Essential tasting for serious collectors of Japanese single malts

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Karuizawa Tokyo International BarShow 2012 taste like?

This Karuizawa expression offers a distinctly Japanese flavor profile with mountain pine, dried persimmon, and polished cedar on the nose, followed by rich umami depth, candied ginger, and aged wood notes on the palate. The high proof delivers intense flavors that unfold slowly with contemplative sipping.

Should I drink this Karuizawa neat or with water?

Given its rarity and 61.7% ABV, this whisky is best approached neat initially to experience its full intensity, then experiment with a few drops of pure water to open additional flavors. Never use this precious liquid in cocktails — its historical significance demands respectful neat consumption.

Why is Karuizawa whisky so expensive and rare?

Karuizawa Distillery closed permanently in 2000, making every remaining bottle irreplaceable. The distillery's high-altitude location, small production runs, and meticulous Japanese craftsmanship created whiskies of extraordinary quality that can never be replicated, driving extreme collector demand.

How should I store this Karuizawa bottle?

Store upright in a cool, dark place away from temperature fluctuations. Given its collector value, consider keeping the original packaging intact. Once opened, consume within a reasonable timeframe as the high proof will preserve quality, but the experience is finite.

What makes this Tokyo International BarShow release special?

This 2012 release was specially bottled for the Tokyo International BarShow using a marrying cask technique that combined selected 1999 and 2000 vintage casks. The limited nature of this show release makes it even rarer than standard Karuizawa bottlings, representing a specific moment in Japanese whisky history.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.