Karuizawa, a Japanese distillery, is now closed, but it produced an exciting variety of whiskies, ranging from the very restrained to some rambunctious peaty drams.
Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 in the foothills of Mount Asama, an active volcano at 850 metres above sea level. The distillery is tiny and the aim is traditional, small-scale production to create quality whiskies. Karuizawa used 100% Golden Promise barley, wooden washbacks, small stills and sherry casks sourced from Spain.
Its Single Malts have won gold medals at various tasting competitions.