Karuizawa – Gold Samurai Distilled 1980 Dream Dram Whisky Show 2015 (70cl, 61.6%)

A single-cask Karuizawa distilled in 1980 and bottled in 2015 at 61.6% ABV, in a 70cl bottle. It was released for the Whisky Show 2015. Karuizawa distillery was founded in 1955 at Miyota, on the southern slopes of Mount Asama, and closed in 2001. Its stills were later moved to other distilleries in Japan. The colour is mahogany. The nose recalls old cognac, with raisins, peaches and rancio, then medicinal touches of tiger balm and bandages. On the palate come oranges and flint, turning mineral, and the finish is very long, salty and minty.