Suntory Pure Malt Whisky 1991 Furudaru Shiage is a rare, discontinued Japanese pure malt whisky from Suntory, bottled at 43% ABV in a 750ml bottle. It is a true vintage "dusty", dated 1991 on its label and presented in its original box.
Furudaru Shiage means "old barrel finished". The whisky was finished in long-used casks, which add depth and roundness without heavy new-oak flavour. The label also carries the characters for bamboo-charcoal filtration (竹炭濾過): the whisky was filtered through charcoal made from bamboo, a distinctly Japanese step that gives a smooth, polished texture.
This was one of a series of experimental pure malt bottlings Suntory made for the Japanese market around that time, before the world discovered Japanese whisky. These small releases were rarely exported, and unopened bottles in their boxes have become collector's items.
The dark bottle with its black and gold label, and the plain kraft box brushed with the Furudaru Shiage name in calligraphy, make it a striking piece for a Japanese whisky shelf and a thoughtful gift for someone born in 1991.
In the glass, expect a mellow, rounded malt with dried fruit, honey and soft wood, smoothed by the bamboo-charcoal filtration and the gentle influence of old casks.
Tasting Notes
-
Nose: Dried fruit, honey and soft wood
-
Palate: Round and mellow, with malt sweetness and gentle oak
-
Finish: Smooth and medium in length
Specifications
-
Producer: Suntory
-
Style: Japanese pure malt whisky
-
Year: 1991 (dated on the label)
-
Finish: Old barrel finished (Furudaru Shiage)
-
Filtration: Bamboo charcoal
-
Proof / ABV: 86 proof (43% ABV)
-
Packaging: Original box
-
Origin: Japan
-
Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Enjoy it neat in a small tulip glass, or with a single ice cube. Let it rest in the glass for a few minutes to open up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Furudaru Shiage mean?
"Old barrel finished": the whisky was finished in long-used casks.
What is bamboo-charcoal filtration?
The whisky was filtered through charcoal made from bamboo, for a smoother texture.
Is it still produced?
No. It is a discontinued, vintage-dated bottle.
Explore more in our Japanese Whisky collection.
