The Yoichi Non-Peated (Bottled in 2021) is a limited-edition Japanese single malt whisky released by Nikka Whisky as the inaugural chapter of their acclaimed "Nikka Discovery" series. This lineup was designed to preview the brand's 90th anniversary celebrations (which took place in 2024), showcasing the various experiments and innovative approaches conducted behind the scenes at their distilleries. The ConceptThe Yoichi distillery, located in Hokkaido, is globally famous for producing bold, robust, peated, and smoky whiskies due to its traditional direct coal-fired distillation. This 2021 edition completely subverts that identity by being crafted exclusively from unpeated malts, offering a smooth and fruity perspective of the distillery.(Note: As part of the same collection, its sister distillery Miyagikyo — known for a light, floral profile — did the exact opposite by releasing a peated expression). Technical SpecificationsType: Japanese Single Malt WhiskyAlcohol by Volume (ABV): 47% (slightly higher than the standard edition's 45%)Filtration: Non-chill filtered with natural colorMaturation: Aged in a combination of American oak casks (refill, toasted, and re-coopered), sherry casks, and virgin American oak barrelsDesign: Features a clear glass bottle (instead of the usual dark glass from the regular lineup) to symbolize the "revelation" and transparency of this experiment.Tasting NotesNose: Highly refined, with prominent notes of malted barley, acacia honey, fresh fruits (green apple, pear, banana), and a subtle herbal and spicy touch.Palate: Rich and oily texture. It opens with vibrant citrus, evolving into toasted vanilla, almonds, walnuts, and a fine balance between sweet and salty notes (a nod to the distillery's coastal location).Finish: Medium to long, fruity, and creamy, with lingering spices and a gentle dryness from the oak.As a limited release with a restricted number of bottles worldwide, it has become a highly sought-after collector's item for Japanese whisky enthusiasts.