Japan Import System Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo / President: Katsuhiko Tanaka) announces the limited release of "Laphroaig 1999 26-Year Rum Cask" as the final item in the revived Celtic lettered label series, commemorating the 25th anniversary of Kingsbury's legendary "Celtic Collection."
About Kingsbury
Independent bottler Kingsbury Wine & Spirits Co. Ltd. began bottling single malt whisky in 1989. With an unwavering commitment to single cask releases, this historic bottler celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2023.
Among their numerous series, the "Celtic Collection" remains a legendary presence. Instead of displaying distillery names, the labels feature only Celtic lettering, creating an iconic design.
This legendary series, which produced the mythical "Bowmore 1966," began bottling in 1999 and first went on sale in 2000.
Last year marked the 25th anniversary of its creation, prompting the limited revival release of four items.
Leading with the long-aged Secret Islay "Ruewin Islay 1991," three items have been released so far, all receiving high acclaim.
Now, the final and greatest release has finally arrived.
The Final Release: Laphroaig 1999 26-Year
The Celtic lettering spelling "ISLAY" fills the entire label, serving as the series' signature element.
True to that name, this release features Laphroaig distilled in 1999.
Through rum cask maturation, which pairs exceptionally well with Islay malts, it develops sweet, profound character beneath the smokiness.
With only 149 bottles produced, this extremely rare release perfectly concludes the Celtic Collection's 25th anniversary celebration.
Tasting Notes
Rich, creamy dark toffee aromas eloquently tell the story of long rum cask aging. Oak sage and licorice root blend with gentle smoke, spreading nuances of salted bitter-sweet chocolate. Layers of flavor fill the palate, changing expression over time. The finish is long and complex, with peat, sweetness, and Islay's characteristic saltiness lingering pleasantly.
Product Details
Laphroaig 1999 26-Year / Kingsbury Celtic
- Country: United Kingdom
- Region: Scotland
- Volume: 700ml
- Alcohol: 53.9%
- Cask Type: Rum Cask
- Suggested Retail Price: ¥76,780 (tax included)
About Kingsbury
Kingsbury was established in Aberdeen, Scotland, and began bottling single malt whisky in 1989. Now based in Edinburgh, it stands as one of Scotland's leading independent bottlers. Since its founding, the company has released numerous high-quality and distinctive single malts.
In its early days, the concept of malt whisky was not yet mainstream. Kingsbury recognized its potential early on, maintaining a philosophy of respecting the raw spirit's individuality through careful cask selection, emphasis on single casks, and non-chill filtration. This dedication has produced many masterpiece bottles and established a solid reputation.
In 2012, Gordon Wright of the Springbank Distillery founding family became representative, continuing to support the brand's quality and philosophy to this day.
