Category: Brewery Visits

Exploring the Brews of Japan: Beer Regions and Distinctive Styles

Posted on by Van Lou

Introduction

When it comes to world-renowned beverages, Japan is often associated with its exquisite sake and green tea. However, the Land of the Rising Sun has been steadily making a name for itself in the world of craft beer as well. With a growing craft beer scene and a penchant for precision and craftsmanship, Japan has developed distinctive beer styles that reflect its unique culture and traditions. In this blog, we will delve into the beer regions of Japan and some of the distinctive beer styles associated with each.

1. Hokkaido: The Pioneer of Japanese Craft Beer

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is not only known for its stunning landscapes but also its pioneering role in Japan’s craft beer movement. The region’s harsh winters and access to fresh water from pristine sources make it an ideal location for brewing. The Sapporo Beer Museum, established in 1987, played a significant role in promoting craft beer in Japan. Sapporo Brewery, one of the oldest in Japan, started producing craft-style beers and even established the Sapporo Beer Garden, where you can enjoy their brews alongside local dishes.

Distinctive Styles:

– Sapporo Classic: A lager with a crisp, clean taste, ideal for pairing with Hokkaido’s seafood.

– Yo-Ho Brewing’s Yona Yona Ale: Known for its citrusy and fruity flavors, this pale ale is a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts.

2. Kanto: The Heart of Japan’s Craft Beer Scene

The Kanto region, home to Tokyo, is at the epicenter of Japan’s craft beer revolution. With a bustling urban environment and a thriving culinary scene, it’s no surprise that craft breweries have proliferated here. The area boasts a diverse range of beer styles, from IPAs to stouts.

Distinctive Styles:

– Baird Beer’s Suruga Bay Imperial IPA: A well-balanced and hoppy India Pale Ale that’s gained international recognition.

– Swan Lake Beer’s Porter: This dark beer features rich, roasted malt flavors and is a comforting choice during Tokyo’s colder months.

3. Kansai: Tradition Meets Innovation

The Kansai region, which includes Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, has a unique blend of old and new. Traditional sake breweries coexist with innovative craft beer makers, creating a vibrant beer scene. You can often find craft beer bars and izakayas (Japanese pubs) serving up a mix of local and international brews.

Distinctive Styles:

– Minoh Beer’s W-IPA: A double IPA with a bold, fruity character and a hint of Japanese yuzu citrus.

– Kyoto Brewing Company’s Matcha IPA: Combining the flavors of Kyoto’s famous green tea with an IPA, this beer offers a distinct taste of the region.

4. Chugoku and Shikoku: Hidden Gems of Craft Beer

The Chugoku and Shikoku regions are lesser-known but have been gaining recognition in recent years. With a focus on quality ingredients and small-batch production, breweries in these areas are producing some exceptional beers.

Distinctive Styles:

– Doppo Beer’s White Ale: A Belgian-style white ale brewed in the Hiroshima Prefecture, with a refreshing and slightly spicy taste.

– Ehime Beer’s Mandarin Ale: Made with local mandarin oranges, this ale from Shikoku delivers a refreshing citrusy kick.

5. Kyushu: The Southern Flavor Palette

Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost major island, offers a diverse range of flavors in its craft beers. From the volcanic soils of Kumamoto to the tropical influences of Okinawa, Kyushu’s breweries draw on their unique environments to create distinct beer styles.

Distinctive Styles:

– Be Easy Brewing’s Goya Dry: This Okinawan brewery’s take on a goya, or bitter melon, infused beer offers a refreshing, slightly bitter taste.

– Kumamoto Kojiya’s Saison: Using locally sourced koji (a fermentation agent), this brewery produces a saison with unique umami and fruity notes.

Conclusion

Japan’s beer regions and distinctive styles showcase the country’s growing enthusiasm for craft beer. While sake and green tea will always hold a special place in Japanese culture, the craft beer movement is carving out its niche, creating an exciting fusion of tradition and innovation in the world of brewing. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or a curious traveler, exploring Japan’s beer regions and their unique styles is an adventure worth embarking upon. Cheers to the flavors of Japan!

From Convicts to Crafters: Exploring Australian Breweries and Travel

Posted on by Van Lou

Aussie Brews: Unveiling the Flavours of Australian Beer

Uncover the rich tapestry of Australian beer culture in our comprehensive exploration of beer styles and brewing regions. From iconic commercial giants like Carlton Draught and Victoria Bitter in Melbourne to emerging craft beer hubs in Brisbane, Sydney and Adelaide, we delve deep into the diverse world of Australian brewing. Discover unique Aussie twists on traditional styles, such as beers infused with wattleseed, finger limes, and tropical fruits. Join us as we raise a glass to Australia’s thriving beer scene, offering something for every palate. Cheers to Aussie brews from commercial to craft!

How It All Began: From Convicts to Crafters

Australia’s beer heritage dates back to the early days of colonization when British settlers brought with them their brewing traditions. Over the centuries, this influence evolved, merged with local ingredients, and gave rise to distinctive Australian beer styles. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of Australian beer, from the iconic commercial giants that have quenched the nation’s thirst for decades to the dynamic craft beer revolution that has swept the country.

The Commercial Giants

Victoria: Melbourne’s Brewing Legacy

Melbourne, often dubbed the “Cultural Capital of Australia,” is home to several iconic commercial breweries. Carlton & United Breweries (CUB), one of Australia’s largest beer producers, churns out classics like Carlton Draught, a crisp, golden lager perfect for a hot day, and Victoria Bitter (VB), a robust, bitter beer with a loyal following. These beers are quintessential choices for those seeking a taste of Australian beer heritage.

New South Wales: Sydney’s Beer Icons

Sydney, Australia’s largest city, is not only known for its stunning harbor but also for housing Tooheys, famous for Tooheys New, a refreshing lager, and Reschs, known for Reschs Pilsner, a classic Australian lager. These beers are beloved by many Aussies and are often enjoyed during sporting events and social gatherings.

Queensland: XXXX Gold and the Sunshine State

In the tropical state of Queensland, XXXX Gold, brewed by Lion, is a popular choice, especially on hot, sunny days. Its light and easy-drinking characteristics make it a staple in the region.

Craft Beer Revolution

Victoria: Melbourne’s Craft Beer Scene

Melbourne is at the forefront of the craft beer revolution. The inner suburbs of Collingwood, Fitzroy, and Richmond are home to numerous craft breweries and bars. Mountain Goat Beer, known for its Hightail Ale, a rich and malty amber ale, and Colonial Brewing Co., renowned for their Small Ale, a sessionable and hoppy beer, are just a few examples of the innovative and delicious brews available in the city.

Queensland: Emerging Craft Beer Culture

In recent years, Brisbane and the surrounding areas have embraced the craft beer movement. Green Beacon Brewing offers beers like the Windjammer IPA, bursting with tropical fruit flavors, while Newstead Brewing Co. impresses with their innovative Gose, a sour beer with a hint of saltiness. These breweries are shining stars in the Queensland craft beer landscape.

Western Australia: Perth’s Craft Beer Oasis

Perth has embraced craft beer culture with open arms. Little Creatures Brewery, known for its distinctive Pale Ale, and Feral Brewing Company, renowned for their Hop Hog IPA, are among the region’s top craft breweries. Little Creatures’ Pale Ale is a bright and citrusy brew, while Hop Hog is a hoppy delight loved by beer enthusiasts.

New South Wales: Sydney’s Craft Beer Renaissance

Sydney has a burgeoning craft beer scene, with neighborhoods like Marrickville becoming a craft beer hub. Young Henrys offers a wide range of beers, including their flagship Newtowner Australian Pale Ale, and Batch Brewing Co. is known for their West Coast IPA, a hoppy and piney delight. These breweries are shaping the craft beer renaissance in Sydney.

South Australia: A Taste of South Australia’s Brewing Excellence

Adelaide, the picturesque capital of South Australia, boasts a thriving craft beer scene that’s been steadily brewing up a storm in recent years. Nestled amidst its historic streets and vibrant culture, craft breweries have been flourishing, each with its unique identity and flavor profile. From the hop-forward delights of Pirate Life Brewing to the experimental concoctions at Big Shed Brewing Concern, Adelaide’s craft beer landscape is a haven for enthusiasts seeking innovative brews. The city’s craft beer bars and taprooms, such as the renowned Brewboys, offer a welcoming ambiance for beer aficionados to savor these locally brewed gems. Whether you’re indulging in a refreshing pale ale by the river or sipping on a barrel-aged stout in the heart of the city, Adelaide’s craft beer scene is a testament to the city’s dedication to exceptional brewing and a vibrant social experience.

Tasmania: The Island’s Craft Beer Charm

Known for its pristine landscapes, Tasmania is also home to a thriving craft beer scene. Moo Brew offers beers like the Hefeweizen, a classic German-style wheat beer, and Cascade Brewery creates an array of brews that often incorporate local ingredients. These breweries provide a taste of the island’s unique flavors, often in the form of craft beer.

The Unique Aussie Touch

Australian craft brewers often experiment with indigenous ingredients, creating beers that encapsulate the essence of the land. Look out for brews infused with ingredients like wattleseed, adding a nutty and roasted flavor, finger limes, providing a zesty and citrusy twist, and tropical fruits, adding lifted fresh and sour dimensions to the brew. These ingredients add a distinctively Australian twist to the world of craft beer, making each sip a unique experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Australia’s beer landscape is as diverse and captivating as its geography. Whether you’re sipping on a classic lager from a commercial giant or exploring innovative craft brews from local artisans, you’re sure to find a beer that suits your taste. So, next time you find yourself Down Under, be sure to raise a glass and toast to the remarkable world of Australian beer. Cheers!