Sapporo Beer Launches the 9th Edition of YEBISU's Creative Brew Series

Sapporo Beer Unveils 'Wakana' — The Latest in YEBISU's Creative Brew Series

On September 2nd, Sapporo Beer Co., a subsidiary of Sapporo Holdings, will launch 'YEBISU Creative Brew Wakana,' the ninth installment in its innovative Creative Brew line. This special release will be available in both cans and keg formats for a limited time.

Innovative Brewery Experience

The Creative Brew series encourages exploration into novel flavors and brewing techniques, leveraging over 130 years of expertise in the YEBISU brand. Each entry pushes beyond conventional beer boundaries, inviting enthusiasts to discover the unique tastes that YEBISU can offer.

Wakana stands out as a testament to this vision, originating from a passion for Japanese ingredients and brewing methods. Composed of 100% domestically sourced hops — including the indigenous variety 'Shinshu Wase' and the traditional hop lineage 'Little Star,' alongside the exciting new addition 'Furano Magical' — this beer represents a collaboration of flavors that celebrate Japan’s rich brewing heritage.

Craftsmanship in Every Sip

In crafting Wakana, intricate attention was paid to the timing of hop addition during the brewing process, ensuring that the distinctive characteristics of each hop shine through. Moreover, the fermentation process is enriched with YEBISU yeast, adding depth and elegance to the overall flavor profile. Each can’s packaging visually embodies this elegant blend of hops, clearly reflecting the product's unique attributes.

Before its official launch, the keg version of 'Wakana' will be available ahead of time at an event called 'YEBISU Beer Holiday,' set to take place at Ebisu Garden Place, starting on August 22nd. This pre-launch opportunity allows fans to savor the delightful concoction before its wider release.

Continuing a Legendary Legacy

With a legacy surpassing 130 years, YEBISU continues to push the envelope of beer possibilities. They aim to satisfy consumer appetites while inspiring a proactive spirit that contributes to positive change in society. As they progress, YEBISU pledges to deliver beers that resonate with consumers’ hearts, ensuring that each experience is memorable and enriching.

Insights from the Chief Experience Brewer

Ryota Aritomo, the Chief Experience Brewer, articulates the essence of Wakana: “Wakana carries forward the concept of exploring the charm of domestic hops, an initiative we began with our 'Elite Hop' series at YEBISU Brewery Tokyo. Our years of research have yielded these three distinguished domestic hop varieties, and we are excited to present their exquisite aromas paired with the profound taste cultivated through YEBISU yeast.”

About Ryota Aritomo

Ryota Aritomo joined Sapporo Beer in 2012, starting his career in beer brewing at the Hokkaido Brewery. He later focused on yeast research at the Alcoholic Beverages Research Institute, followed by an educational stint in Germany where he earned a Brewmaster certification. Upon returning, he engaged in new product development and research, ultimately taking charge of brewing at the newly opened YEBISU Brewery Tokyo in April.

Product Details

- Product Name: YEBISU Creative Brew Wakana
- Packaging: Available in 350ml cans, 500ml cans, and 20L kegs.
- Type: Beer
- Alcohol Content: 5.5%
- Pure Alcohol Amount: 15.4g for 350ml can, 22g for 500ml can
- Release Date: Both can sizes and kegs will roll out on September 2nd nationwide, with select bars like 'YEBISU BAR,' 'TAPS BY YEBISU,' and 'Sapporo Beer Hita Factory' featuring limited quantities.
- Suggested Retail Prices: 350ml can: ¥269 (excluding tax), 500ml can: ¥356 (excluding tax)
- Flavor Features: Utilizes domestic hops 'Shinshu Wase,' 'Little Star,' and 'Furano Magical.' Tapping into all three hops in a staggered process maximizes their unique qualities, combined with the deep flavors and a lingering aftertaste from YEBISU yeast fermentation.

As YEBISU continues to innovate its product lineup, stay tuned and experience firsthand the remarkable world of YEBISU's Creative Brew! For more information, visit the YEBISU brand site or their exclusive page on Creative Brew.