The auction will chart the evolution of Japanese whisky, from the early pioneer to the new-generation distiller
Japanese whisky lovers are in for a treat. Following the 1st Edition Hanyu Card bottling sold for £43,000 in March 2026, new records have been targeted with the upcoming exclusive auction by Whisky Auctioneer, the world-leading online platform dedicated to the drink.
Happening this 12 to 22 June 2026, the auction will chart the evolution of Japanese whisky, from the foundational influence of pioneers like Suntory and Nikka, to the category’s new generation of distillers, such as Chichibu Distillery.
The world’s most iconic and sought-after Japanese whiskies will take centre stage, with the Karuizawa 1960 “The Poet” (Cask #5627) leading the way as headliner. Distilled at the now-closed Karuizawa Distillery and bottled in 2013 at 52 years of age, this is one of 41 bottles ever produced and the oldest Karuizawa ever released. Presented in an intricately crafted Wenge wooden puzzle box, it comes adorned with a unique antique netsuke, from which the bottle takes its name. That, and exceptional provenance, being consigned directly by Marcin Miller, its original creator and co-founder of independent bottling company Number One Drinks.
Do also keep your tabs on the Yamazaki 55 Year Old, the world’s oldest Japanese whisky; a one-of-a-kind Karuizawa 1998 collaboration with artist Harland Miller; and the revered Ichiro’s Malt Hanyu Card Series ‘1st Card’ bottlings.
Register today and get ready to bid at Whisky Auctioneer. Featured photo by Whisky Auctioneer
