The "Black" is a Pure Malt (Blended Malt) whisky that is characterized by powerful peat, rich taste and firm flavor. The unique bottle that has a laboratory feel to it was designed by the same designer who created From the Barrel. Of Nikka's two malt whisky distilleries, Yoichi produces rich, peaty and masculine malt. The whisky gets its distinct aroma and body from direct heating distillation, in which the pot stills are heated with finely powdered natural coal--the traditional method that is hardly ever used today, even in Scotland.