“French Pilsner,” the seasonal product announced on Fujizakura Heights Beer’s official blog, is a European pilsner that evolves last year’s project based on a German pilsner. According to the February 13, 2026 announcement, this year’s beer is set at 4.5% alcohol, centering on a sharp, clean drinkability while adjusting the body so it does not become too thin.

The key point is the hop design. This year, the brewery switched from the French hop “Theorem” used last year to another French variety, “Brewer’s Gold.” The brewery explains that, in addition to fruit notes reminiscent of blackcurrant, the beer expresses the herbal and spicy character typical of French hops. They also fine-tuned the timing of hop additions to create a gradual progression in bitterness and aroma, resulting in a delicate lager.

For food pairings, the brewery suggests edamame peperoncino, minced-cutlet croquettes, spring rolls, and charcuterie. It pairs well with dishes from appetizers to fried foods, and the brewery also notes that it goes especially well with dishes using black pepper, making its design as a beer for meals especially clear. Sales are being announced on the company’s Rakuten marketplace page.

Fujizakura Heights Beer was founded in 1997. It is a brewery that has continued making beer based on German brewing techniques in an environment at the northern foot of Mount Fuji, at an elevation of about 1,000 meters in Yamanashi Prefecture. Its official site also highlights its track record of award wins at competitions in Japan and abroad for beers such as “Pils” and “Weizen,” and this new release can be seen as an extension of the lager expression the company does best. For pilsner fans, this is a release worth checking out, including the enjoyment of following each year’s seasonal design changes.