Nine Leaves 4 Casks – Four of “ISU” 2017
Pure Single Japanese Rum – Full Proof 59%

Nine Leaves 4 Casks – Four of “ISU” 2017 is Japanese rum in a class of its own. A rare and uncompromising bottling from the now closed Nine Leaves distillery, created for collectors and connoisseurs seeking intensity, authenticity and true Japanese craftsmanship. This release represents some of the last and most coveted the distillery has ever released.

Distilled in 2017 and bottled at full strength of 59% alcohol – with no dilution and no filtration – the rum appears exactly as the casks have shaped it. Four of “ISU” is a Small Batch blend of four carefully selected casks that together create a deep, complex and harmonious whole, without compromising the intensity of the Single Cask expression.

Ex-Bourbon – Small Batch – Full Proof

The rum is aged in ex-bourbon barrels, providing structure, warm vanilla notes and a classic, elegant sweetness. The casks add balance and depth while maintaining the distillery’s distinctive style with great precision. The result is a powerful yet refined Japanese rum that evolves beautifully in the glass.

The release is part of the coveted Unsun Karuta series, inspired by traditional Japanese playing cards. Created as a tribute to the last casks from the distillery’s warehouse, the series marks the end of one of Japan’s most cult rum distilleries.

Tasting notes

Nose: Clear and complex with notes of vanilla, coconut, lightly caramelized sugar, citrus and spicy oak. Subtle floral nuances and a clean, precise expression.

Flavor: Rich and powerful with layers of caramel, vanilla, orange peel, light tropical fruit and warm spices. The alcoholic strength is evident but nicely integrated, providing structure and depth.

Finish: Long and persistent with dried fruit, spicy oak, vanilla and an elegant, dry finish.

House history

Nine Leaves distillery was founded in 2013 by Takeuchi Yoshiharu in the town of Otsu in Shiga Prefecture. Drawing inspiration from both Caribbean rum tradition and Japanese craft philosophy, Nine Leaves created a unique style of rum characterized by purity, precision and uncompromising respect for the raw materials. The distillery closed in 2023, making all remaining bottlings extremely sought after by collectors around the world.

The Unsun Karuta series marks the distillery’s final chapters – and Nine Leaves 4 Casks – Four of “ISU” 2017 is not only an outstanding Japanese rum, but a rare piece of liquid heritage.

• Type: Rum
• Style: Pure Single Japanese Rum – Small Batch – Full Proof
• Cask type: Ex-Bourbon
• Content: 70 cl
• Alcohol: 59%alcohol