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If you were to name one of the most popular drinks in Japan, you’d probably go for “sake” as something distinct, memorable and specific to the Japanese culture. However, did you know that this nation is actually beer-crazy? Because they love it so much, it’s only natural that they have a wide selection of high-quality beers that people in the rest of the world don’t even know about. Because of that, we’ve decided to find out what is the best Japanese beer out there. Join us on this somewhat drunken quest and try them all out.
Traditional Japanese Beer: Kirin Lager
It is said that Kirin Lager is among the Japan’s beers with the longest tradition. The original brewery was founded in 1885 and, though it has since changed names and owners a couple of times, remains one of the most beloved beer manufacturers in Japan. There are numerous versions of the Kirin Lager sold around the world but, according to many connoisseurs, none of them actually have the quality of the original. Unlike most Western beers, the Japanese beer is made out of rice, which is why it has that “sake” aftertaste. Combined with salty snacks, preferably sea food, this lager is the best.
Suntory The Premium Malt’s
The name premium itself tells you everything you need to know about this beer. A bit younger than Kirin, Suntory brewery was established in 1899 and started off as a simple store selling imported wines. Over the years, it developed, expanded, and now makes one of the most popular beers in Japan. The Premium Malt’s is a Japanese beer rich in flavor and easy to drink (though what beer isn’t?) Not only is it recognized in Japan, but it also gained recognition in Europe, winning the Monde Selection competition three times in a row. This year, Suntory introduced the new Premium Malt’s beer and it’s even better than the old one.
Sapporo Yebisu – High-End Japanese Beer
For those of you who aren’t afraid to spend a little extra on a truly great beer, there’s always Sapporo Yebisu. It may seem strange that one of the best Japanese beers actually has a lot more in common with Germany than Japan, but it’s that strange mix that makes it worth the money. Namely, Sapporo Yebisu is made according to an old German recipe and even uses German imported ingredients. However, it’s the Japanese touch that makes it so valuable. Grab one of them before lunch and it will improve any meal substantially.
Asahi Super Dry
We need to say it first, Asahi Super Dry really isn’t for everyone. Dry beers are generally a matter of taste and are usually reserved for mature drinkers. This type of beer is made through a longer fermentation process, which removes some of the bitterness and makes the beer light. However, these beers have a higher percentage of alcohol, which is why they shouldn’t be taken lightly. Asahi Super Dry is the first dry beer in Japan that appeared in 1987. As the years went by, its taste improved and people fell in love with it. Of course, since it’s not an original Japanese beer, it does not require rice but malted barley and a special strain of yeast. Asahi Super Dry also includes a huge amount of hops, making the beer more rich and unique in taste.
Sapporo Nama Beer Black Label
For the end of our list, we’ve decided to include yet another Sapporo product, though it’s much more different than the Yebisu we’ve mentioned before. The Black Label (or as they call it Kuro Label) was officially launched in 1977. The beer itself came to life as a draft beer way before this launch, but it took them time to find the right way to bottle this product without sacrificing the quality. This Japanese beer is described as mild and rich in flavors but again, not for everyone. There are subtleties and mature notes in it that only true connoisseurs will be able to detect.
What is your favorite Japanese beer? Have you tried them in Japan or as imported products? Is there a difference for you?
