Akkeshi – Ritto Limited Release 2021 (55%)

Ritto 2021 is a Japanese single malt from the Akkeshi distillery on Hokkaido, bottled at 55%. It is the fifth release in the 24 Solar Term Series, which takes its inspiration from the old Asian calendar that divides the year into 24 periods. Ritto marks the turn towards winter, and the packaging of Chitose candy sticks inspired the design. The whisky matures in Mizunara, sherry and Pinot Noir casks, and peat from the local area was used for the latest releases in the series. Its profile is lightly smoky, with chocolate notes, citrus and white pepper.