Kotokoto Beer is a microbrewery based in Kizugawa City, Kyoto Prefecture. On its official website, it highlights a lineup that values pairings between food and beer, and its brewing is characterized by an emphasis on regional ingredients and connections to the dining table.

Announced on Instagram on April 26, "KYOTO ICHIGO ALE" is a limited release co-developed by Osazen Farm in Yawata, Kyoto, the Ecological Service Research Center at Kyoto Sangyo University, and Kotokoto Beer. According to the post, it uses strawberries grown with lots of care in generous amounts, creating a brew that lets the fruit's presence come through clearly.

As for the flavor direction, the recipe was designed "to go well with meals." While it can be enjoyed on its own, the brewery appears to have aimed for a design that also works as a table beer by balancing acidity and flavor. It is a bottle that also fits Kotokoto Beer's idea of "an everyday drink, a special drink."

Sales began at the brewery's direct shop and online store, and will be rolled out sequentially to various other stores as well. Because it is a limited brew, it will be sold until it runs out. As a strawberry beer developed in collaboration by a local farm, university, and brewery, it is a new release you'd want to check out early if you spot it.