Karuizawa Noh 13 Years (Second Edition): A Supplementary Bottling with Lower Remaining Stock than the First Edition
Noh 13 Years (Second Edition) is a supplementary bottling within the Karuizawa Noh series, sharing the same vintage as the 13 Years First Edition but featuring independent cask numbers and different samurai mask designs. Its remaining stock is lower than that of the first edition. Collectors typically acquire both the first and second editions to complete their collection. Given that the distillery has long ceased operations and no new stock is being produced, the scarcity of this second edition, with even fewer units remaining, makes it even more prominent when offered for sale.
Karuizawa Noh 13 Years Second Edition: Brand Lineage and Resale Value
Karuizawa was a Japanese single malt whisky distillery operated by Mercian in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It was known for its long-term use of Spanish Oloroso sherry casks for maturation, resulting in a rich and deep body often described with layers of dried fruit, Christmas pudding, dark chocolate, and cinnamon. After its closure, it became one of the brands with the highest single-bottle transaction prices globally. Some rare single casks have fetched over seven-figure Hong Kong dollar prices at Bonhams and Sotheby's. The phased bottling mechanism of the Noh series is precisely why the same vintage can spawn different versions like the first and second editions.
Noh 13 Years (Second Edition) Specification Positioning
| Item | Bottle Characteristics |
| Whisky Type | Japanese Single Malt |
| Age Statement | 13 Years (Same vintage as the 13 Years First Edition) |
| Edition | Second Edition (Cask numbers do not overlap with the First Edition) |
| Cask Type | Single Cask, mostly matured in sherry casks |
| Label Main Visual | Features a different samurai mask design |
| Rarity Level | Limited single cask, usually fewer than 200 bottles per release |
| Distillery Status | Ceased production in 2000, site demolished in 2011, discontinued Japanese whisky |
Main Factors Affecting the Buyback Price of Noh 13 Years (Second Edition)
As there are different versions from the same vintage, version identification is particularly crucial for this whisky. Valuation also considers appearance and completeness of accessories.
| Assessment Item | Optimal Condition | Common Deductions |
| Version Identification (Back Label Cask Number) | Clear back label cask number, confirmed as Second Edition, no overlap with First Edition. | Blurred cask number, difficult to determine version. |
| Original Box and Certificate | Complete and intact original box, numbered card, and certificate. | Missing box, missing certificate, lost accessories. |
| Fill Level | Liquid level at the bottle neck. | Liquid level dropped, suspected leakage. |
| Seal and Cork | Intact seal, healthy cork or screw cap. | Damaged seal, previously opened, aged cork. |
| Label Printing | Clear and layered mask pattern, no yellowing or curling edges. | Blurred print, smudges, curling edges. |
If any one item is missing, the valuation will be discounted according to the extent, but the item can still be acquired.
How to Prepare Karuizawa Noh 13 Years Second Edition Before Selling
- Get a clear look at the Karuizawa Noh 13 Years Second Edition photos: Take clear photos of the front, back label, fill level, seal, and box/certificate. WhatsApp them to 46135750 to first confirm the version, then discuss collection arrangements.
- First, check the market range for Karuizawa Noh 13 Years Second Edition: The Karuizawa Noh 13 Years Second Edition isn't just about the vintage; it also depends on the box/certificate, fill level, seal, and label condition. With complete information, the price will be closer to the market transaction value.
- Same-day quotation and transaction: After a suitable price range is provided, if you are satisfied with the price, we will arrange an in-person pickup or store visit. Payment will be settled immediately in cash or via FPS.
Frequently Asked Questions Before Selling Karuizawa Noh 13 Years Second Edition
Q: There are many versions of Karuizawa Noh 13 Years with similar names. How can I avoid misjudging the price when asking for a quote?
A: First, take photos of the front and back labels, seal, fill level, and accessories. Then, add a picture of the bottle bottom or certificate. Buyers usually look at the vintage, cask number, label theme, and completeness of the certificate. Relying solely on the name can lead to a very rough estimate.
Q: Will the buyback price for the Noh 13 Years Second Edition and First Edition be the same?
A: Not necessarily. The cask numbers and labels for both editions are independent, and the remaining stock also differs (the Second Edition usually has less). The final valuation depends on the specific cask number, condition, and weekly transaction prices, so it's difficult to generalize. Send us photos, and we can assess them separately.
Q: I only have the Second Edition, not the First Edition. Will this affect the buyback?
A: No, it won't. The Second Edition is an independent single cask bottling and can be acquired individually. If you sell the First Edition later, we will also value it according to the market at that time, and we do not require a complete set.
Q: How can I confirm that I have the Second Edition and not the First Edition?
A: The main indicator is the cask number code on the back label; the two editions will not overlap. If you are unsure, send us clear photos of the back label, and we will verify the version when providing a quote.
When asking for a quote for Karuizawa Noh 13 Years Second Edition, it doesn't need to be too complicated. First, take clear photos of the front, back label, fill level, seal, and box/certificate. WhatsApp them to 46135750, then we can discuss collection based on the version and condition.
Noh Series Market Depth
The Karuizawa Noh series was released from 12 to 23 years, with some vintages even having first and second editions due to phased bottling. Each bottle is an independent single cask bottling. The Noh series is a long-standing subject in late Karuizawa bottlings, with Bonhams, Sotheby's, and Whisky Era featuring them in their auctions every quarter. The cask number and condition differences between different versions of the same vintage directly impact the valuation. It's advisable to perform a version comparison before selling.
Further Reading: Japanese Whisky Full Series Valuation, buyback FAQ.
Karuizawa Noh 13 Years Second Edition Similar Whiskies:Karuizawa Noh 13 Years, Karuizawa Noh 12 Years, Karuizawa Noh 14 Years.
