1980s Armor 100 Pure Malt 12 Years Old, 750ml, 43% Whisky, Special Grade #121

During the golden age of whisky in Japan in the 1980s, the "Armagh 100 12 Year Old" was praised by discerning whisky lovers for its "incredible quality that far exceeds its price." The "Special Grade Whisky" label and the standard specifications of 750ml / 43% at the time indicate that this is an extremely well-preserved old bottle that was in circulation before the 1989 revision of the Liquor Tax Law.

This masterpiece was bottled by Peter J. Russell & Co., Ltd., a prestigious Edinburgh proprietary (owner) and the predecessor of Ian MacLeod Distillers, which currently owns renowned distilleries such as Glengoyne and Tamdhu. Thanks to the exceptional aesthetic sense of the blenders, only distinctive malt spirits from the Highlands, known as a renowned malt-producing region, as well as Islay and the Lowlands, are aged in barrels for a minimum of 12 years and then luxuriously blended.

As its name suggests, this whisky boasts carefully selected "100% Pure Malt" and was introduced to Japan through Kyobare Co., Ltd. in Hachioji, the importer at the time. At its launch price of around 5,000 yen, it was relatively inexpensive compared to the current Yamazaki 12 Year Old, but it contained a generous amount of high-quality malt that would be equivalent to a 20-year aging period by modern standards. For this reason, it remains a legendary "hidden gem" among enthusiasts, with its perfect balance of the delicate smoke of Islay malt and the powerful malty sweetness of Highland malt.

Years of bottle aging have mellowed the 43% alcohol content, evolving it into a silky smooth texture. Poured into a glass, the aromas of dried fruit and honey, characteristic of old bottles, and the peaty notes of a subtle sea breeze and bonfire rise gracefully. The finish lingers, with a woody note reminiscent of Mizunara oak and a fruity note reminiscent of ripe apple, allowing you to truly savor the essence of "good old Scotch." The gold cap seal and classic label design featuring a pot still evoke the elegance of an era when whiskey was considered a "special luxury item." Even after nearly half a century, the label remains pristine and the liquid level is well maintained, making this an excellent choice for both collections and as a bottle to be opened on a special occasion.

• Product name: ARMOR 100 PURE MALT 12 Years Old
• Type: Malt blended whisky (pure malt Scotch whisky)
  
• Age: 12 years (or more)
• Capacity: 750ml
• Alcohol content: 43%
• Distillation period: Before the 1970s
• Distribution period: 1980s onwards
  
• Release price at the time: Approximately 5,000 yen
• Note 1 : While we carefully select our products, this product may not retain its original quality due to the long time since its manufacture. While this does not significantly affect the flavor or drinkability of the alcohol, there are cases where sediment (a deposit of whiskey components) solidifies and precipitates. Therefore, even if you are not satisfied with the quality, we cannot accept returns or refunds after purchase. We apologize for any inconvenience, but please be aware of this before purchasing.
• Note 2 : Even if an old bottle of whiskey is unopened, the volume may have gradually evaporated over the years and decreased. Our store uses the shoulder line of the bottle as a criterion and only carefully selects products that we deem suitable for sale.