Karuizawa is part of the Number One Drinks company, which also includes the Hanyu and Chichiby distilleries. Karuizawa focuses on traditional Scottish traditions and small-scale production.

Karuizawa 1988 
(59,8%, OB 2006, cask #3397)

Nose: reminds me of dead treas covered with moss. Oaky but in a rather un-fresh way, I love that! Rather bourbonny in that sense. Sherried fruitiness as well (raspberry, spicy apple cake), very mature nose. Mouth: quite hot without water. Meaty sherry. Ginger, apple cake again, a bit of cinnamon. Maltier and sweeter towards the end.  Finish: medium length, spicy (cloves) and dry.

Interesting how the Japanese know how to pick some of the best sherry casks. The nose would make you think it’s a bit older, but then it shows the powerful freshness on the palate. Very good. Around € 100 if you can still find it.

Thanks for the sample, Dirk! Score: 87/100