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Yamazaki 12 Year Old Pure Malt (YAMAZAKI PURE MALT), 750ml, 43%, distributed in the early 1990s

Yamazaki 12 Year Old Pure Malt (YAMAZAKI PURE MALT), 750ml, 43%, distributed in the early 1990s

Regular price ¥60,000 JPY
Regular price Sale price ¥60,000 JPY
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The Yamazaki brand, named after the Yamazaki Distillery, Japan's first malt distillery, built in 1923, was launched in 1984 to commemorate Suntory's 60th anniversary. This rare vintage bottle of Suntory Pure Malt Whisky Yamazaki 12 Year Old was distributed in the early 1990s, following the abolition of grading due to the 1989 revision of the Liquor Tax Law. This bottle, from this period, when the "Special Grade Whisky" label was removed and the volume transitioned from the Special Grade 760ml to the international standard of 750ml, symbolizes a turning point in Japanese whiskey's journey toward global standards.

During this "Pure Malt" period (before the current Single Malt designation), which dates back to the Grand Cru era, Yamazaki blenders assembled an extremely luxurious selection of malts to solidify the brand's reputation. The 12-year age rating refers only to the minimum age, and in reality, it far exceeds that standard, with carefully selected, long-aged malts distilled before the 1970s being generously vatted to add depth. The malts from this period were made up of a high proportion of high-quality sherry cask malts, which were more abundant than today, and Mizunara oak cask malts, which define Yamazaki's individuality. This resulted in a rich, deep flavor that is unattainable in current products.

The aroma begins with a rich sweetness reminiscent of ripe plums and dried fruit, derived from sherry casks, and is elegantly layered with oriental aromas reminiscent of aloeswood and sandalwood, characteristic of Mizunara oak casks. The 43% alcohol content enhances the strength of the whisky, while years of bottle aging have softened the edges, resulting in a silky smooth mouthfeel, truly demonstrating the golden age of Pure Malt Yamazaki. This bottle, which conveys the spirit of an era when Japanese whisky making was overflowing with passion, is a historical treasure worthy of collectors, offering the ultimate in aged whisky savory experiences, along with its historical value.

  • Product name: Yamazaki 12 Year Old Pure Malt
  • Type: Single malt whiskey
  • Age: 12 years (or more)
  • Capacity: 750ml
  • Alcohol content: 43%
  • Distillation period: Before the 1980s
  • Distribution period: early 1990s onwards
  • Release price at the time: Approximately 10,000 yen
  • Note 1 : We carefully select our products, but because this product was manufactured many years ago, it may not retain its original quality. Therefore, even if you are not satisfied with the quality, we cannot accept returns or refunds after purchase. We apologize for the 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.

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