Better life with upcycle released Ume Shiso Sour Ale on September 10, 2026. The beer upcycles two ingredients after their original use: Beni-sashi plums from Fukui Prefecture used in plum wine, and red shiso used in a cider made with Fukui’s traditional Kida shiso.

The beer is an American-style Sour Ale with Ume and Red Shiso. Its acidity comes from the plum, red shiso, and lactic-acid character, creating a nuance reminiscent of a red umeboshi. Triskel and Idaho 7 hops add aromas suggestive of apricot and flowers, balancing the tartness with a fresh yet layered profile. A bread- and malt-derived grain character emerges on the finish.

The beer has an ABV of 4.5%, 14 IBUs, and is packaged in 350 ml cans. Ingredients include malt, wheat bread, plum, red shiso, hops, and hibiscus. As a bottle-conditioned-style product containing yeast, it may develop haze; the brewery notes that this does not affect quality. The beer should be kept refrigerated.

Based in Ebina, Kanagawa, Better life with upcycle builds on the heritage of a bakery founded in 1923. The brand’s central idea is to give food byproducts a new role, including transforming bread crusts into craft beer. By combining bakery craftsmanship with brewing, it presents upcycling as part of an enjoyable food and drink experience.

Ume Shiso Sour Ale is listed in the brewery’s online store at ¥572 including tax. With its umeboshi-like tartness, red-shiso aroma, floral hop notes, and gentle grain finish, it offers a distinctive way to experience both Japanese ingredients and the brewery’s upcycling philosophy.