Saitama-based Nutori Brewing has announced “Shin Lager!” as a new collaboration beer. In its Instagram post, the brewery reported that it had already been put on tap, alongside the subtitle “Tsumugi and Nutori ~Fourth Piece~.”

This time’s partner is Tsumugi (@beer_tsumugi) in Minami-Kashiwa, Chiba. In the post, along with a message celebrating Tsumugi’s 4th anniversary, the brewery also explained the meaning of “fourth piece.” Drawing on a kabuki-derived expression that refers to a capable supporting actor or strong supporting presence that gives a story stability, the concept suggests that the beer was designed with that role in mind.

While the style name emphasizes “lager,” placing “Shin” in the name creates a point of interest that evokes both classic character and a modern interpretation at the same time. It carries a collaborative context and is being presented as more than just a limited-release brew.

Nutori Brewing is a brewery that operates in tandem with a taproom in Kawaguchi, Saitama, and its official site also emphasizes a close-to-everyday approach to craft beer through brewery-adjacent operations and takeaway service. This “Shin Lager!” also seems to be an extension of that hands-on, on-the-ground activity.

At this point, the post does not specify an end date for service or any additional schedule, so anyone who wants to drink it should check the latest tap information on social media.