Shiga Kogen Beer releases Fresh Hop Blonde in a 3,139-bottle limited batch
Shiga Kogen Beer, brewed by Tamamura Honten in Yamanouchi, Nagano, has released Fresh Hop Blonde as a seasonal beer. The brew uses Shinshu Wase hops harvested on brewing day and added fresh, paired with wheat and house-grown spelt.
Fresh hops and house-grown spelt
Shiga Kogen Beer is the beer brand brewed by Tamamura Honten in Yamanouchi, Nagano. The new "Fresh Hop Blonde 330 ml" arrives alongside Fresh Hop Grisette as a seasonal release, with a limited run of 3,139 bottles.
The beer is built around Shinshu Wase hops harvested on brewing day and added fresh, without drying. That choice aims to preserve a vivid hop character, while a generous amount of wheat and house-grown spelt brings a softer, gently textured mouthfeel. It is 4.5% ABV with 12.5 IBU, and is described as a lightly hazy bright yellow beer with citrus notes leaning toward lemon and sudachi, plus a touch of mandarin. The brewery also says the saison yeast character is kept in check so the hop and ester notes stay in balance.
Suggested pairings range from appetizers and tempura to white fish, but it also works well as a simple seasonal beer on its own. It is a practical, food-friendly fresh hop release that reflects Shiga Kogen Beer’s straightforward brewing style and its connection to Nagano’s local ingredients.
Information may be inaccurate. Please refer to the brewery’s official channels for the latest details.
