Nara Brewing, a craft brewery based in Nara City, has announced the concept and specifications for MACGUFFIN 2026.

A “MacGuffin” is a key object or character that drives the plot of a film or novel, even when its true nature remains unknown. Since 2022, Nara Brewing has used the name for an annual beer series, hoping each version will become “a beer that moves Nara Brewing forward, even if nobody knows what it is.”

The 2026 edition takes inspiration from amaro, the bitter Italian herbal liqueur made by infusing herbs, spices, roots, and bark. Nara Brewing used angelica, orange peel, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, and caraway, along with hops. Fresh beet was also added to bring an earthy character and a distinctive color associated with amaro.

MACGUFFIN 2026 has an ABV of 6.0% and an IBU of 6. The recipe uses Vienna and Pilsner malts, with Magnum hops, and is presented in an “Italian Red” color.

The aroma is led by citrus from orange peel, followed by refreshing spice notes from cardamom and coriander. On the palate, lively carbonation gives way to layers of herbs, spices, and beet, with an earthy, rustic character. The finish retains aromas suggestive of cardamom and cinnamon, along with a long bitterness distinct from that of hops.

Nara Brewing recommends enjoying the beer either straight or over ice. The release is planned for 350ml cans as well as 10.4L and 15.5L kegs. At the time of the brewery’s announcement, the beer was still being prepared for sale. MACGUFFIN 2026 offers a distinctive meeting point between craft beer, cocktails, and the herbal complexity of amaro.