Suntory Kioke Shiomi Pure Malt is a rare and highly sought-after Japanese whisky that first appeared in 1991. It was distilled in 1981 and aged in traditional kioke (Japanese wooden barrels) for 10 years before being bottled at 43% ABV. Kioke barrels are larger and shallower than traditional oak barrels, allowing for a more even and gentle maturation process. This rare, pure malt whisky from Suntory was bottled in Yamanishi and is believed to be a blend of Hakushu and Yamazaki single malts, with 90% Hakushu whisky in the barrels. The red Japanese characters in the center of the bottle label translate as "Direct Fired," referring to the distillery's distillation technique. Shipping only to EU countries!