Suntory Whisky turns materialistic

Bottles of Suntory Whisky will be packaged up in Japanese traditional scarves this Christmas as a tribute to the Japanese 'art of giving'.

The distiller will join with retailer Dan Murphy’s to supply customers with the limited edition scarf – called the “furoshiki” – which is used for gift-wrapping in Japan.

Available as a gift with purchase in the lead-up to Christmas, staff will be on hand to wrap the bottles in the furoshiki for customers, as well as provide tastings of the Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve.

Like origami, furoshiki is considered an integral part of Japanese culture. For 2000 years, furoshiki served as a special pouch to hold personal items. Today, the ancient custom has become fashionable in Japan as an eco-friendly, lasting wrapping.

“The Japanese are renowned for their respectful character, and it's something we bring into all we do at Suntory Whisky,” Beam Suntory marketing manager Narelle McDonald said.

“The Art of Giving furoshiki is the epitome of the respect and care that is taken when honouring loved ones.

“Suntory Whisky is the perfect gift, and the furoshiki completes a Suntory Whisky present in effortless style.”

Just 400 furoshiki have been produced for Dan Murphy’s stores around Australia, and sales will begin this weekend.