Kiuchi Brewery has been operating in Ibaraki Prefecture since 1823, though it only turned to brewing beer in 1996. The Non Ale is fermented to 0.3% from the start rather than having alcohol stripped out afterwards, which tends to produce a more coherent malt character than dealcoholisation. It pours deep amber with a fine white head. The aroma is quiet: wholemeal toast, a faint floral note, something faintly herbal in the background. On the palate there's a proper malt base, bready and lightly biscuity, with Cascade hops contributing a suggestion of lemon peel and soft grapefruit. Bitterness is low. The finish runs dry rather than sweet, which is welcome. Carbonation is minimal and the body is smooth, giving it a composed, settled quality. Not the most expressive beer in the category, but well-made and honest.