Karuizawa 1981 Single Malt
$9,000.00
Japanese Single Malt Whisky
70cl / 58.1%
Karuizawa 1981 Single Cask: A Jewel of Japanese Whisky
The conversation often leads to Japan’s esteemed distilleries when discussing the finest whiskies in the world. Among these, Karuizawa has carved a niche for itself, celebrated for its rich flavors and exceptional quality. The Karuizawa 1981 Single Malt stands out as a particularly captivating expression, embodying the elegance and craftsmanship that Japanese whisky is renowned for.
The Distillery’s History
Karuizawa Distillery was established in 1955 in Nagano Prefecture, near the stunning volcanic region of Mount Asama. It was one of the first distilleries in Japan to produce single malt whisky, drawing inspiration from the Scottish tradition. However, the distillery faced numerous challenges, including limited production capacity and a phased closure in 2000. By then, a legacy of excellent single malts had already been created, with the 1981 vintage being one of the most sought-after.
The 1981 Vintage
The Karuizawa 1981 Single Malt was distilled on the 9th of December, 1981, and matured in sherry casks, lending it a robust character and depth. Throughout its aging process, the whisky absorbed flavors from the wood, which had previously held rich sherry, allowing for a remarkable fusion of taste elements. The result is a whisky that showcases the distinctive qualities of Karuizawa’s production techniques, even as it reflects the characteristics of its aging environment.
Perhaps few whiskies capture the essence of their distillery as the Karuizawa 1981 Single Malt does. With a limited bottling – often cited at just a few hundred bottles – it quickly became a highly coveted collector’s item among whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide.
Tasting Notes
Upon pouring a glass of Karuizawa 1981, the deep amber hue captivates the eye. The first nosing reveals a complex bouquet of aromas, including dark chocolate, dried fruits, and rich spices, alongside whispers of vanilla and oak. The influence of the sherry cask is unmistakable, offering a sweet, inviting aroma that beckons you to take a sip.
On the palate, the whisky unfolds in layers. Its texture is creamy and full-bodied, coating the mouth with flavors of stewed fruits, toffee, and nutty undertones. The sherry influence brings forth notes of raisins and figs, while hints of cinnamon and clove provide warmth and depth. As it lingers, an herbal note of gentle eucalyptus and a touch of smoke emerge, making each sip an adventure.
The finish is long and satisfying, marked by a blend of sweet and savory notes with a gentle oakiness, leaving a lasting impression that invites reflection. There is a sense of complexity that evolves, prompting one to savor the moment and contemplate the craft behind such a remarkable whisky.
The Collectibility of Karuizawa 1981
The rarity and quality of the Karuizawa 1981 Single Malt have contributed to its status as a prized collector’s item. As the demand for Japanese whisky continues to grow globally, bottlings from the now-defunct Karuizawa Distillery have become increasingly sought after, often fetching impressive prices at auctions and among collectors. For many, owning a bottle of Karuizawa whisky is not just about enjoyment but also about possessing a piece of whisky history.
Conclusion
Karuizawa 1981 Single Malt is more than just whisky; it is an emblem of a storied distillery and an art form that reflects the precision and passion of its creators. For those fortunate enough to experience this exceptional dram, it offers a tantalizing glimpse into the extraordinary world of Japanese whisky. Its unique flavor profile, astounding craftsmanship, and limited availability ensure that it will be forever cherished by whisky lovers, a true jewel in the crown of the whisky universe. With each sip, one can almost hear the echoes of distillation, aging, and meticulous care that define Karuizawa’s legacy.
At Rare Cask Vault , we are committed to delivering your rare and vintage whiskey purchases with the utmost care, security, and efficiency. Our goal is to ensure that every bottle arrives safely at your doorstep, ready to be enjoyed or added to your collection. Below, you’ll find detailed information about our shipping process, policies, and procedures.
Domestic Shipping Within the United States
We currently only offer shipping within the United States. All orders are processed and shipped in compliance with federal and state alcohol shipping regulations. Please note that certain states may have restrictions on the shipment of alcoholic beverages—check our list of eligible states or contact us for clarification.
- Shipping Fees: Shipping costs vary depending on your location, the size of your order, and the carrier used. Exact fees will be calculated at checkout.
- Delivery Timeframe: Most orders are processed within 1–2 business days and delivered within 5–7 business days after dispatch. Expedited shipping options are available for an additional fee.
- Carrier Options: We partner with trusted carriers such as UPS, FedEx, and other specialized alcohol shippers to ensure safe and timely delivery.
Packaging & Handling
Your rare whiskey deserves the highest level of protection during transit. Each bottle is carefully packaged using industry-leading techniques to prevent damage:
- Secure Packaging: Bottles are wrapped in protective cushioning and placed in durable, leak-proof boxes designed specifically for alcohol shipments.
- Temperature Control: During extreme weather conditions (e.g., heatwaves or freezing temperatures), we may delay shipping to ensure your whiskey isn’t exposed to harmful temperatures. You will be notified if this occurs.
- Tracking Information: Once your order has been shipped, you will receive a confirmation email with tracking details so you can monitor its progress.
Recipient Requirements
Due to federal and state laws governing the shipment of alcohol, all deliveries must meet the following requirements:
- Adult Signature Required: A person aged 21 years or older must be present to sign for the package upon delivery. Carriers will not leave the package unattended under any circumstances.
- Delivery Attempts: If no one is available to sign for the package, the carrier will attempt delivery up to three times before returning the package to us. Re-shipping fees may apply if the package is returned due to missed delivery attempts.
- Address Verification: Please ensure the shipping address provided is accurate and complete. We cannot redirect packages once they have been dispatched.
Restricted States
While we strive to ship to as many locations as possible, some states have strict regulations that prohibit direct-to-consumer alcohol shipments. As of now, we are unable to ship to the following states:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Delaware
- Hawaii
- Kentucky
- Mississippi
- Oklahoma
- Utah
If you reside in one of these states and would like to purchase from us, please contact us at info@rarecaskvault.com to discuss alternative arrangements.
Damaged or Lost Shipments
We take great pride in ensuring that every bottle leaves our facility in perfect condition. However, unforeseen issues can occur during transit. Here’s how we handle such situations:
- Damaged Goods: If your bottle arrives damaged, please document the condition with photos and contact us immediately at info@rarecaskvault.com . We will work with the carrier to file a claim and arrange for a replacement or refund.
- Lost Shipments: In the rare event that your package is lost during transit, we will initiate a trace with the carrier. If the package cannot be located, we will provide a replacement or issue a full refund.
Returns & Refunds
Due to the nature of our products, we do not accept returns or exchanges unless the item was damaged during shipping or incorrectly sent. If you believe your order qualifies for a return, please contact us within 7 calendar days of receiving your package.
International Shipping
Currently, we only ship within the United States. International shipping is not available at this time. However, we are actively exploring options to expand our services globally. Stay tuned for updates!
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