Karuizawa Spirit of Asama 55% vs Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Karuizawa Spirit of Asama 55%
Karuizawa
★ 4.67
£1500

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Laphroaig
★ 5.00
£1500
| Karuizawa Spirit of Asama 55% | Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Karuizawa | Laphroaig |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | Japan | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 55% | 46.6% |
| Age | NAS | 32 yr |
| Price | £1500 | £1500 |
| Rating | 4.67/5 | 5.00/5 |
Karuizawa Spirit of Asama 55%
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Karuizawa Spirit of Asama 55%
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Quick verdict
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.67).
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £1500.
For beginners: Karuizawa Spirit of Asama 55% is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).
Karuizawa Spirit of Asama 55%
Pros
- +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts
Cons
- −High ABV (55%) — may need water
- −Lower community rating (4.7 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy Karuizawa?
Karuizawa Spirit of Asama 55% is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.
Who should buy Laphroaig?
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Karuizawa Spirit of Asama 55%
Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)