Please Help Japan

Kirin Ice + Beer

This is one of the few new releases for the summer from the main breweries in Japan, and surprisingly it's an actual beer! Recently they've only been releasing Daisans (beer-like taste drinks).

This is from Kirin and is called Ice+Beer because it's designed to be drunk on the rocks.

Perfect for the hot, humid Japanese summer (at least in concept!).

Apparently they came up with this idea because of the recent trend of people drinking wine or sake on the rocks. It's designed so the ice won't weaken the taste (they're using sweeter smelling hops, a special yeast as well as more malt to give it a darker colour).

Ok, so I've poured it in my glass and added some ice. Lets taste it.

In the glass it's a nice amber, golden colour and it did have a big white head (although this has now all but disappeared while I was writing the above).

It has a light malty nose, and I guess it is a little sweet.

On the palate, fresh initially and hoppy on the finish. It's a little sweet on the palate too. The ice goes well and makes it very cool and refreshing.

After a while there is some bitterness coming through on the aftertaste, and there is a hint of dryness in the mouth, but just enough to make you want to go back for another mouthful.

Overall, I have to say I'm very impressed. The recent offerings from Sapporo (Ice Lager), and Asahi (Blue Label), were average at best, but this is very good.

This could become my favourite Kirin in fact.

10 Drinkers Online - Cheers!