Suntory Pure Malt Whisky 1981 Kioke Shikomi: A Wooden-Vat Japanese Blended Malt from a Vanished Era
Suntory Pure Malt Whisky 1981 Kioke Shikomi is a vintage Japanese blended malt whisky distilled in 1981 from Hakushu and Yamazaki malts, fermented in wooden vats, direct-fire distilled, and bottled in 2005 at 43% ABV (86 proof) in a 750ml bottle.
Before “Japanese whisky” was a category people hunted for, Suntory was making this. Kioke shikomi means fermented in wooden vats, the same kind used for sake, and the spirit was distilled over a direct flame, an old and unforgiving method. The malt is reported to be mostly from Hakushu, the Japanese Alps distillery, with Yamazaki in the vatting, and the label reads Pure Malt, the term Japan used for a blend of malts before “blended malt” caught on. The whisky was distilled in 1981 and bottled in 2005, which makes it roughly 24 years old, and it’s been discontinued for years.
Collectors describe a whisky of vanilla, honey, nutmeg, hay, and butter, with oak and a little smoke, a malty, spicy palate, and a long finish of honey. It’s richer and heavier than most modern Suntory bottles, and a little sake-like, from the wooden vats. It’s a bottle for a Japanese whisky collector, a milestone gift for someone born in 1981, and a piece of Suntory history that’s worth opening for the right occasion. Sip it neat in a tulip glass, with a drop or two of water, and give it time.
About the Bottle
- Japanese blended malt (“pure malt”) whisky; vintage 1981, bottled 2005
- Malts from Suntory’s Hakushu and Yamazaki distilleries; wooden-vat fermented; direct-fire distilled
- 43% ABV (86 proof); no age statement (about 24 years)
- Suntory, Japan; 750ml
Tasting Notes
Nose: Vanilla, honey, nutmeg, hay, butter, oak, and a little smoke.
Palate: Malty and spicy, with gentle smoke.
Finish: Long, with honey.
Food Pairings
The honey and malt pair well with aged Gouda, dark chocolate, and roasted nuts. They also go with grilled eel, mushrooms, and a cigar.
Serving Suggestions
Sip it neat in a tulip glass at room temperature, with a drop of water. Don’t chill it, and don’t mix it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “kioke shikomi”? Fermentation in wooden vats, like those used for sake.
Is it a single malt? No, it’s a blended (“pure”) malt from more than one distillery.
How old is it? Distilled in 1981 and bottled in 2005, about 24 years; there’s no age statement.
What proof is it? 86 proof (43% ABV).
Is it still made? No, it’s discontinued.
What’s the condition of the bottle? See the condition notes on this page.
Explore More
Browse our Whiskey collection or Gifts collection.
The Quality Liquor Store Guarantee
At Quality Liquor Store, we guarantee that every bottle we sell is authentic and carefully packaged to arrive safely at your door. This is a discontinued vintage release, so it is sourced through the secondary market, and each order is carefully inspected and packaged. Shop with confidence knowing your bottle is in good hands.
