#Japan #Tokyo #Craft Beer #Mikkeller Japan #Garage Project

Mikkeller Japan Launches Mikkeller NZ

Mikkeller Japan has announced an exciting development in the world of craft beer with the introduction of its very first flagship beer series, called "Mikkeller NZ." This project is a collaboration with Garage Project, an experimental brewery located in Wellington, New Zealand, and aims to bring a unique selection of craft beers to the Japanese market.

Background of the Project

Since its inception, Mikkeller has been known for its innovative approach to beer making, having collaborated with various breweries across the globe to create unique brews. While Mikkeller Japan has primarily focused on limited releases in the past, Mikkeller NZ represents a new direction aimed at providing a stable, consistent line of beers tailored for Japanese consumers. By combining the distinctive characteristics of New Zealand hops with the creative brewing philosophies of both Mikkeller and Garage Project, this new series promises to deliver a craft beer experience that is enjoyable and accessible for everyday drinkers.

Collaboration with Garage Project

Established in 2011, Garage Project started in a small garage with just a 50-liter brewing setup, before rapidly transforming into a globally acclaimed brewery. The brewery is recognized for its boundary-pushing approach to beer crafting and its strong ties to New Zealand’s hop industry. This deep sense of innovation is something that resonates well with Mikkeller's own philosophy. The two breweries met during the Mikkeller Beer Celebration Tokyo in 2018; since then, they have built a strong rapport that set the groundwork for this new collaboration. The upcoming Mikkeller NZ series integrates Mikkeller’s classic recipes with Garage Project's fresh brewing methods.

Mikkeller NZ Initial Lineup

The first lineup of Mikkeller NZ will feature three distinct beers:

Mysterious Path

• - Style: Dry Hop Pilsner (Alc. 4.5%)
• - Hops: Saaz, Nelson, Simcoe, Motueka, Citra

This Pilsner is rooted in a Bohemian style, enhanced by the unique attributes of New Zealand hops, creating vibrant aromas reminiscent of citrus and white grapes along with a crisp finish. It strikes a beautiful balance between refreshing sensations and the playful essence of hops.

Forest Friends

• - Style: West Coast IPA (Alc. 6%)
• - Hops: Simcoe, Taiheke, Riwaka

Featuring grapefruit and passion fruit aromas, this West Coast IPA stands out with a clean and sharp bitterness. It combines the familiar structures of classic West Coast IPAs with the vivid fragrances offered by New Zealand hops.

Windy Hill

• - Style: NEIPA (Alc. 7%)
• - Hops: Motueka, Taiheke, Mosaic, Citra, Nelson

Highlighting aromas of lime, mango, and gooseberry, this NEIPA manages to offer a light and approachable drinking experience, despite its 7% alcohol content. It presents a tropical, velvety haze that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Future Plans

Mikkeller NZ is intended to be an enduring series within the Japanese market. As Mikkeller Japan continues to develop recipes that leverage the rich characteristics of New Zealand hops, a broader range of craft beer experiences will be offered, providing consumers with more options than ever.

Mikkeller & Friends Wholesale Japan

With the launch of Mikkeller NZ, Mikkeller Japan is also kicking off a significant wholesale operation under the brand name "Mikkeller & Friends Wholesale Japan." This new venture aims to distribute Mikkeller NZ as well as products from their globally recognized brewery partners, including Warpigs, OMNIPOLLO, Garage Project, and Brewski. Their diverse offerings will enhance the craft beer market further and create exciting experiences for Japanese consumers.

Although Mikkeller beers have been imported and sold in Japan through existing distributors, this new wholesale initiative is positioned as a unique distribution model to increase the availability and awareness of both Mikkeller beers and the engaging creations from Mikkeller Friends brewers.

To ensure quality outreach, Mikkeller & Friends Wholesale Japan has developed a dedicated channel for procuring craft beer through restaurants, liquor stores, and various events. Further inquiries regarding new partnerships or event participation can be directed to the company’s email.

Mikkeller Japan’s Social Media Presence

Stay connected with Mikkeller Japan by following their official Instagram, where they share stories of their activities within Japan, as well as showcase exciting beers and the tales behind them.

Official Instagram: @mikkellerjapan

About Mikkeller

Founded in Copenhagen, Denmark, Mikkeller has established itself as a pioneer in the craft beer scene. The brand operates bars and eateries around the world and engages in international craft beer festivals and running clubs, all while producing innovative beers through numerous brewery collaborations globally.

Store Locations in Tokyo

• - Mikkeller Tokyo

2-19-11 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

• - Mikkeller Kiosk/Bar

1-17-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

• - Mikkeller Burger

3-17-1 Tamagawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo

• - Mikkeller Kyoto

310-2 Bizenjima-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto

Company Overview

• - Company Name: Mikkeller Japan Co., Ltd. / Mikkeller Beer Co., Ltd.
• - Location: 2-19-11 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
• - CEO: Hamilton Shields
• - Business Scope: Importing, manufacturing, and selling craft beers, operating restaurants.