Seasonal beers are found throughout the world. For example, Märzen (a.k.a. Oktoberfest) beers were traditionally brewed in March for consumption in September. Japan has numerous seasonal festivals and breweries have capitalized by creating fall beers. Japan’s big four (Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo, and Suntory) breweries release autumn beers, which are available from late-August into October. The packaging evokes fall with red, orange, and yellow colors and images of falling leaves on the cans. If you’re visiting Japan during this time of the year it is a great opportunity to try beers that are notably different. Now onto sampling Japanese fall beers.
Asahi
Kurenai (紅) is Asahi’s fall beer. Although 紅 translates to “crimson,” the beer is not an amber lager or red ale. Instead it is a Japanese rice lager with a heavy dose of crystal malt and Amarillo hops. It is darker in color than Asahi’s well-known Super Dry, which is a pale yellow. Kurenai has a unique yellow-orange hue. The beer is malty and smooth with a bit of sweetness from some caramel notes.
Details
ABV: 6.5%
Serving Options: 350mL can, 500mL can, 500mL bottle, and 633mL bottle.
Untappd Global Rating: 3.01/5
My Untappd Rating: 3.5/5
Kirin
Aki aji (秋味) is Kirin’s fall beer. 秋味 translates to “autumn flavor.” First brewed in 1991 it is one of the oldest Japanese fall beers. It is very similar to a typical Japanese rice lager with a pale-yellow color. It is light and smooth with a slightly bready finish.
Details
ABV: 6%
Serving Options: 350mL can, 500mL can, 500mL bottle, and 633mL bottle.
Untappd Global Rating: 3.06/5
My Untappd Rating: 3.25/5
Sapporo
Baisen (焙煎) is Sapporo’s fall beer. It was first brewed in 1992 with a limited release. After growing in popularity, the beer received a national release in 2009. 焙煎 translates to “roasted raw.” The can references roasted malts, which according to Sapporo press releases promotes more aroma and richness. It is reminiscent of am amber lager, but unlike the American amber it is not bitter or hop forward. The beer is smooth with malty backbone and light roasted notes.
Details
ABV: 6%
Serving Options: 350mL can and 500mL can.
Untappd Global Rating: 3.18/5
My Untappd Rating: 3.5/5
Suntory
The Premium Malt’s Aki Kaoru Ale (秋香る) is Suntory’s fall beer. 秋香る translates to “autumn fragrance.” Akin to an English brown ale the beer has a dark orange hue. It is malty and smooth with caramel and light roasted notes. It is a very well-balanced beer.
Details
ABV: 6%
Serving Options: 350mL can and 500mL can.
Untappd Global Rating: 3.27/5
My Untappd Rating: 3.5/5
Recapping the beers
Between the four beers, my least favorite was Kirin Aki aji (秋味). Despite being the original Japanese fall beer, it is too similar to the rice lagers that dominate the market in Japan. Asahi Kurenai (紅) and Sapporo Baisen (焙煎) are the next tier. Both are malty and smooth, but differ just a tad. Kurenai is sweeter than Baisen, which has more roasted notes. My favorite of the four major Japanese fall beers is Suntory Premium Malt’s Aki Kaoru Ale (秋香る). It has a great balance of malt, sweetness, and roasted flavors.
Regardless of your preference, sampling Japan’s autumn beers is a great way to experience something new. Most convenience stores carry one or two of the beers, but grocery stores tend to have a larger selection. Additionally, the beers are cheaper at the grocery store. Kanpai to enjoying the flavors of the fall!
