A historic bottle of 55-year-old Yamazaki whisky, recognised as the oldest and most valuable whisky ever bottled in Japan, will take centre stage at Bonhams’ upcoming Whisky Immortal: The World’s Most Coveted Spirits sale. The online auction runs from 31 May to 12 June, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire this exceptional spirit.
The bottle is estimated to be worth more than $250,000, reflecting its extraordinary rarity and significance in Japanese whisky history. This marks the first time in two and a half years that a complete packaged bottle has been offered for sale in the United States, making it a particularly special occasion for collectors.
A Tribute to Japan’s Transformative Era
The Yamazaki 55 pays homage to Japan’s Showa era of the 1960s, a pivotal period of transformation for the House of Suntory. Master Blender Keizo Saji was tasked with bringing his father’s vision to life, creating what Suntory describes as “not only quality liquid gold but a quintessentially Japanese experience and lifestyle that rooted Suntory Whisky within Japanese culture.”
Yamazaki 55 Year Old Important Stats
This extraordinary blend combines precious single malts with remarkable provenance. Components were distilled in 1960 under the supervision of Suntory’s founder Shinjiro Torii and aged in Mizunara casks, whilst additional elements were distilled in 1964 under Second Master Blender Keizo Saji and matured in White Oak casks.
Suntory’s Fifth-Generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo collaborated closely with Third-Generation Master Blender Shingo Torii to deploy their signature blending artistry.
The whisky presents a deep amber color with robust aromas reminiscent of sandalwood and well-ripened fruit. The palate delivers sweet, slightly bitter, and woody notes, leading to a finish that balances slight bitterness with sweet, rich characteristics.
Initially released in 2020, only 200 bottles of Yamazaki 55 were made available globally, immediately establishing them as highly coveted collector’s items. The extreme scarcity, combined with the whisky’s historical significance and exceptional quality, has cemented its position as one of the most sought-after spirits in the world.
For serious Japanese whisky collectors, this Bonhams auction represents a rare chance to acquire a piece of distilling history that bridges generations of Suntory craftsmanship.
Read the full article at Rare 55 Year Old Yamazaki Whisky to Headline Bonhams Auction
