Smoked-style picks to pair with BBQ

BiaMa Kitasenju in Kitasenju, Adachi Ward, Tokyo, posted recommended beers with BBQ in mind. The shop is known as a beer pub that carries a broad range of craft beers from around the world, and its standing-bar setup makes it easy to drop in casually. In this post, the lineup centers on labels that make use of smoked malt and peat aroma.

First up was Nomcraft / Beerfule. It was introduced as using malt smoked with Nacchan's peat, with a balance of peat aroma and smoke, plus a pleasant sweetness and rich flavor. It is an easy beer to imagine pairing with BBQ meat dishes.

Next was Mahou / Depths of Muspelheim. This one also uses peat malt, but is said to have a stronger peat aroma. It is introduced as a slightly sharper label that should appeal to people who like the peat character of whisky.

Grimm / Too Dala Pistol is a red lager made with smoked malt. True to the lager style, it finishes lightly, and the smoke is restrained. If you want something to enjoy alongside smoked dishes, this lighter type is an easy match.

On tap, NoBoat / Vorpal Blade has been newly opened. It has a peach-like fruitiness and a grapefruit impression, with moderate sweetness and a slightly higher alcohol content, but is said to be easy to drink. Adding a fruity keg to a lineup built around smoked styles broadens the range for comparison.

If you're looking for a drink that pairs with BBQ or smoked food near Kitasenju Station, this kind of recommendation seems worth keeping in mind. BiaMa Kitasenju is appealing for its casual drop-in atmosphere and its diverse stock of craft beer. Hours are 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (last order 10:00 p.m.).