The sweltering summer heat is here, and so is the season for that first refreshing beer. Why not make that first sip something special with a craft beer?
Sure, craft beers can be a bit pricier than regular ones, but they’re well worth it! As a dedicated craft beer lover, I’d like to introduce you to a personal favorite.
Today’s pick is Gotemba Kogen Weizen—a special brew made with the pristine spring water from Mt. Fuji.
Gotemba Kogen Beer Weizen
Now, when you think of Mt. Fuji, you might picture photos or TV broadcasts, or even catch a glimpse from the Shinkansen. For someone like me, born and raised in western Japan, Mt. Fuji might feel distant, but even so, there's something about its image that stirs a sense of pride.
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the reverence for Mt. Fuji is deeply ingrained in the DNA of the Japanese people. It’s not just the sight of the mountain itself, but also the idea of its spring water that resonates with us.
This time, I’m featuring Gotemba Kogen Weizen, which comes in packaging adorned with a bold, playful image of Mt. Fuji. The beer itself is crafted using the pure spring water from Mt. Fuji, giving it an added layer of authenticity.
True German Style
One of the key characteristics of Gotemba Kogen Weizen is its unfiltered cloudiness, typical of this beer style. Classified as an ale with an alcohol content of 5%, Weizen (or “wheat beer”) originated in southern Germany, where over 50% of the malt used comes from wheat. Unfiltered versions are common, and this particular beer follows suit, made with special yeast and wheat malt.
Its color is described as a pale yellow, but it leans toward a darker, tea-like hue. The aroma is often likened to tropical fruits, particularly banana, giving off a sweet and slightly fermented scent.
The first sip might surprise you! Among the many Weizen-type craft beers available in Japan, this one stands out with its top-class impact. Its rich, mellow flavor comes from the unique yeast used in the brewing process, adding to its distinctive taste.
If you’re looking for a light, easy-to-drink white beer, this might not be the best match. Instead, this is a beer for connoisseurs who appreciate full-bodied, authentic flavors.
An "Edgy" Weizen
The packaging, with its striking Mt. Fuji design, paired with the use of Mt. Fuji's spring water, adds a special appeal that resonates with the essence of Japan. Despite these quintessentially Japanese elements, the flavor is a bold nod to traditional German brewing, capturing the hearts of beer lovers everywhere.
Rather than pairing it with food, this is a beer you’d want to enjoy while taking in the scenery. Even if you can’t enjoy it at Mt. Fuji, cracking open a can in nature will give you a deeply satisfying experience.
