Karuizawa Ichiban 1984 #3663

Japanese Single Malt Whisky | Cask #3663 | 700ml

The Karuizawa Ichiban 1984 #3663 is an exceptionally rare Japanese single malt whisky from the legendary, now-closed Karuizawa Distillery. Distilled in 1984 and bottled as part of the highly respected Ichiban series, this release represents one of the most collectible expressions ever produced in Japan. As a result, it is intensely sought after by elite collectors and serious whisky investors worldwide.

Moreover, Karuizawa’s reputation for producing powerful, sherry-driven single malts has only grown since the distillery’s closure in 2000. Consequently, bottles such as Cask #3663 have become increasingly scarce, therefore commanding significant attention on the global secondary market.

Distillery Heritage & Rarity

Karuizawa was located at the foot of Mount Asama, where its cool climate and small-batch production methods contributed to an unmistakably bold house style. However, following its closure, remaining stocks were released in extremely limited quantities. In addition, many casks were bottled as single cask expressions, making each release entirely unique.

The Ichiban 1984 series, therefore, stands among the most prestigious Karuizawa bottlings ever released. As a result, each surviving bottle represents a tangible piece of Japanese whisky history.

Cask & Maturation

The Karuizawa Ichiban 1984 #3663 was matured in a carefully selected oak cask, allowing decades of interaction between spirit and wood. Consequently, the whisky developed extraordinary depth, intensity, and structure. Moreover, the distillery’s sherry-cask influence is clearly evident, delivering richness rarely found in modern Japanese whisky.

Tasting Notes

Nose
Intense aromas of dark fruits, black cherry, leather, polished oak, dark chocolate, and warming spice.

Palate
Full-bodied and powerful. Moreover, layers of dried figs, espresso, treacle, clove, and toasted oak unfold with remarkable complexity.

Finish
Exceptionally long and dry; therefore, lingering notes of cocoa, spice, and aged oak remain long after the final sip.

Why Buy Karuizawa Ichiban 1984 #3663?

• Distilled at the closed Karuizawa Distillery

• Single cask release from 1984 vintage

• Part of the highly collectible Ichiban series

• Consequently, one of the most valuable Japanese whiskies ever produced

• Ideal for elite collectors, investors, and museum-grade whisky collections

Investment & Collectability

Karuizawa whiskies consistently rank among the most expensive and fastest-appreciating Japanese single malts at auction. Furthermore, the Ichiban 1984 #3663 bottling is particularly prized due to its age, cask individuality, and historical importance. Therefore, bottles in original condition with intact labels and packaging are increasingly difficult to source, making this a compelling long-term investment asset.

Product Details

• Distillery: Karuizawa (Closed)

• Country: Japan

• Vintage: 1984

• Series: Ichiban

• Cask Number: #3663

• Bottle Size: 700ml

• Style: Single Malt Japanese Whisky

• Packaging: Original presentation (where applicable)

Authenticity & Provenance

All bottles offered by Rare Whisky Store are 100% authentic and professionally sourced. Additionally, each bottle is carefully inspected to ensure condition, provenance, and long-term collectability. As a result, buyers can purchase with complete confidence.