Family-run Yotei Brewing in Niseko, Hokkaido, will release its limited beer ÅPEN VOSS Norwegian Session IPA on September 21, 2026. It will be available as draft beer and in 350ml cans while supplies last.

The beer uses K.1, a Voss yeast culture supplied by Norwegian yeast maker Kveik Yeastery, together with Waimea hops from Freestyle Hops. The yeast contributes orange-like character, while the hops bring tropical aromas. At 5.0% ABV and 50 IBU, the beer is designed as a refreshing, sessionable IPA. The malt bill includes Great Western Pale High Color and Rahr 2-row.

Voss yeast is known for fermenting cleanly at relatively high temperatures, including above 30°C. Yotei Brewing used that characteristic not only for flavor development but also as a practical advantage in Hokkaido, where breweries and tanks can become cold during winter. Compared with lager brewing, which often requires wort to be cooled to around 10°C, the yeast can be pitched at a higher temperature and may help shorten the cooling process. For this beer, the yeast was pitched at 32°C to build layers of citrus and stone-fruit character.

The collaboration was arranged by Hakko Supply, which connects Japanese craft breweries with international ingredients and partners. Voss, the Norwegian home of the yeast, is also a place remembered by Yotei Brewing’s production manager from a trip taken around a decade ago. The beer therefore brings together two northern regions: Norway and Niseko.

Yotei Brewing will also pour the beer at Sapporo Autumn Fest from September 21 to 23, at the daily tasting and makers’ stand in Area 7. Cans will be sold at Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station and through Yotei Brewing’s online shop. Draft service is planned at Craft Pub Brian Brew and Hokkaido craft beer shop Hininituka in Sapporo.

Founded by a couple drawn to Niseko’s natural environment and snow-resort culture, Yotei Brewing operates as a small family brewery. Without its own taproom, it focuses on partnerships with local restaurants and bars while brewing modern beers that highlight hop character.