Karuizawa Artist #13 Cask 877 for La Maison du Whisky 60% 1999

Professional reviews

BOW (90)

In the world of rare and exquisite whiskies, few names command as much respect as Karuizawa. The Karuizawa Artist #13 Cask 877, distilled in 1999 and bottled in 2018 exclusively for La Maison du Whisky, stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of this renowned Japanese distillery. With a maturation period spent gracefully aging in a Sherry Butt, this limited edition release comprises a mere 180 bottles, making it a highly sought-after treasure for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

The Distillation:
The journey of Karuizawa Artist #13 Cask 877 begins in 1999, a year that has become synonymous with exceptional vintage releases from the distillery. Distilled to perfection, the spirit embodies the essence of Karuizawa's commitment to quality and tradition. The careful selection of ingredients and the meticulous distillation process contribute to the distinct character that sets Karuizawa apart in the world of whisky.

Maturation in a Sherry Butt:
What truly elevates this expression is its maturation in a Sherry Butt. Sherry casks are known for imparting rich, complex flavors and a deep, amber hue to the whisky. The marriage of Karuizawa's spirit with the influence of the Sherry Butt results in a harmonious symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.

The sherry influence introduces notes of dried fruits, raisins, and a subtle sweetness that complements the inherent richness of Karuizawa's distillate. The oak from the cask imparts a refined depth, adding layers of complexity to the overall profile. Each sip becomes a journey through time and craftsmanship, a testament to the marriage between the artistry of Karuizawa and the influence of the Sherry Butt.

Limited Edition Rarity:
With only 180 bottles released for La Maison du Whisky, Karuizawa Artist #13 Cask 877 is a true rarity. The exclusivity of this release adds to its allure, as whisky enthusiasts around the world vie for the opportunity to savor and collect this exceptional expression. The carefully curated selection of casks and the limited number of bottles ensure that each one is a unique and highly coveted piece of Japanese whisky history.

Conclusion:
Karuizawa Artist #13 Cask 877, matured on a Sherry Butt and bottled for La Maison du Whisky, is a masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of Japanese whisky craftsmanship. From the meticulous distillation process to the artful maturation in a Sherry Butt, every detail contributes to the symphony of flavors that unfold with each sip. For those fortunate enough to secure a bottle, it is not merely a whisky; it is a rare and precious experience—a journey into the world of Karuizawa's artistry and the unmatched allure of limited edition releases.

Serge Valentin (91)

Karuizawa 19 yo 1999/2018 (60%, Artist by LMDW, Spirits Shop Selection, sherry butt, cask #877, 180 bottles, 2023) Five stars
One of the very last vintages, as Karuizawa stopped working in 2000. A bottling straight from Taiwan that was not released immediately after disgorging, I suppose. Colour: coffee. Nose: a little varnish, then a lot of coffee indeed, a lot of heavy pu-her (first waters), a lot of walnut stain, a lot of beef jerky (teriyaki flavour) and surely some Bovril and homemade gravy. Forgot to mention prunes and, naturally, old armagnac. All 'black' aromas. With water: massive chocolate, plus umeshu and hoisin sauce, plus bacon, plus linoleum, plus old exhaust pipes. So very Karuizawa! Mouth (neat): I never found these vintages extraordinary but I'm sure they were too young when most came out. This is something else, we're closer to the 1980s, but the sherry is massive. Litres of walnut wine, old sherry, prune juice, black raisins, coffee liqueur, some pipe tobacco… It is really thick! With water: sweet liquorice just in every corner, plus caraway, pepper and clove as well as an obvious sootiness. Finish: it's becoming saltier, as in salted liquorice, there's some soy sauce, black turon, then chewing tobacco. Some very old Banyuls and once again some caraway in the aftertaste. Comments: these late-1990s vintages were brilliant too, after all, we just had to wait. Remember, patience is not only the road to wisdom, it's also the path to greater spirits. No?