OGA BREWING COMPANY, which develops craft beer from its base in Mitaka, Tokyo, has released its limited beer "Nocturne." The style is a Belgian dark ale, and it is described as having a cocoa-like roasted aroma, dried-fruit notes, and a clean hop finish that lingers pleasantly. In addition to bottle sales, the beer is now available through online sales and shipping, making it easy to get not only in stores but also online.

OGA BREWING is a brewery that promotes itself on its official website as "Mitaka's first craft beer." Alongside its core beers, it offers a lineup that balances regional character and creative projects, including "Chuo Line GO WEST," the "M.C. Series," collaboration beers, and limited beers. Centering its identity on Mitaka, the brewery runs everyday easy-to-drink staples alongside seasonal and playful limited releases.

This latest Nocturne comes in at ABV 5.0% and IBU 10, so even from the numbers it seems designed to be gentle, with an emphasis on aroma and finish rather than strong bitterness. Its calm, roast-driven expression is layered with a woody aftertaste, making it the kind of beer you would want to enjoy slowly at the end of the night. Compared with OGA's standard Mitaka Pale Ale, Mitaka Wheat Ale, and Kichijoji IPA, this limited brew shows another side of the brewery and is worth watching for.