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Archive for the 'Kiuchi' category

Ben - March 14, 2006

Kiuchi Brewery Hitachino Nest White Ale

Hitachino White AleOkay, as we all know, I have a penchant for the Asian ladies.  However, I can’t generally say the same for the Asian beers.  While I enjoy a nice Asahi with my sushi, or a Tsing Tao with my rice bowl, I won’t generally reach for an Asian beer for my night’s treat.  But, the Kiuchi brewery has been making some waves as a fine Japanese purveyor of superior beers.  So, I figured I should give ‘em a try.  The white ale was my first foray.  Here’s what I think.

This ale was a pleasant surprise.  I didn’t expect too much, as Japan isn’t terribly renowned for fine beers – much less for Belgian Whites.  The result, however, is very pleasant.  The hue is a bright yellow, slightly cloudier than you might expect from a traditional pilsner.  The aroma is unique and appealing – it smells like an average white, with the exception of an odd ‘Kool-Aid powder’ smell that is difficult to imagine, but comes across very pleasant.  There is also a hint of citrus.  The taste is smooth through the mouth with a slightly sweet, slightly citrus flavor that follows through the throat with a slight burn that adds some zest.  And, as with the aroma, there is a unique flavor that is reminiscent of Kool-Aid powder.  Very nice, I must say.