LONDON.- Christie's presents an unprecedented opportunity for collectors and connoisseurs with the offering of two entire casks of Karuizawa whisky from the private collection of Sukhinder Singh – Cask #6195 and Cask #888 (estimates on request).
Karuizawa, one of Japan's most significant and now-closed distilleries, ceased production entirely after its closure, leaving a finite supply of whisky that has become highly sought after by collectors worldwide. Known for their depth, sherry influence, and distinctive character, Karuizawa bottles regularly achieve record prices at auction and have achieved a cult status.
The offering of full casks is extraordinarily rare. Each cask contains around 420 bottles (standard 700 ml), giving buyers the opportunity to acquire Karuizawa in its purest form, before bottling, and to determine its future maturation and release. They represent not just whisky, but a tangible piece of history from one of Japan's most iconic distilleries.
Sukhinder Singh, commented, “Having been involved with Karuizawa for many years, this is a remarkable moment. I first tasted it in 2006, and it was unlike anything I had ever experienced – rich, distinctive, and unforgettable. In 2012, I was privileged to acquire a selection of the final casks from this lost distillery, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Every cask we bottled has been unique, with character and history that cannot be replicated. Now, offering these last casks is a chance for collectors to own a piece of whisky history and to shape the final chapter of Karuizawa. Each cask is exceptional, and to hold it in its purest form, before bottling, is an extraordinary experience.”
Adam Bilbey, Global Head of Wine & Spirits at Christie's, added, “Karuizawa is one of the most revered names in Japanese whisky, and the opportunity to offer two entire casks is truly unrivalled, with bottles alone commanding record prices and disappearing into private collections worldwide. To own a cask is to take part in the final chapter of Karuizawa's story, with the ability to shape bottling decisions and bespoke details. Once sold, it is extremely unlikely that any further Karuizawa casks will come to market.”
Both casks were distilled in 1999, shortly before the closure of the Karuizawa distillery in 2000, and are currently lying in bond at The Tormore Distillery in Scotland. Following the sale, the successful bidder may choose to continue storing the casks at Tormore or proceed with bottling.
Sukhinder Singh is the co-founder and owner of independent bottler and blender Elixir Distillers. His career in the drinks industry began at an early age, following his parents' pioneering achievement in the early 1970s as the first Asians in the UK to be granted a liquor licence, opening what became an award-winning off-licence in north-west London.
Singh's passion for whisky was forged in the family business and, by the mid-1990s, he had already amassed a significant private collection. In 1999, following his parents' retirement, Singh and his brother Rajbir sold the family business and founded The Whisky Exchange, which grew into one of the world's leading specialist spirits retailers.
Following the sale of The Whisky Exchange in 2021, Singh and his brother now lead Elixir Distillers, an independent creator, blender and bottler of fine spirits with a respected portfolio of whisky and rum brands. Elixir Distillers also owns Tormore Distillery in Speyside and the forthcoming Portintruan Distillery on Islay, due to open in 2026. Singh has received industry recognition including appointment as a Master of the Quaich.
