Craft Ale Chigira unveils second-release session IPA, LIT session IPA
Craft Ale Chigira, based in Kiryu, Gunma, has introduced a new beer called LIT session IPA. Positioned as the brewery’s second release after Cloud Nine Dog, it comes in at 4.5% ABV and is presented as a hop-forward, easy-drinking session IPA.
Hop BroA fresh one just dropped from Kiryu, Gunma: Craft Ale Chigira is rolling out its second beer, "LIT session IPA," and this one sounds built for easy drinking.
MugiWait, LIT session IPA? That name already sounds like it comes with fireworks. And second beer means they are already on a streak?
Hop BroYep, it follows Cloud Nine Dog as release number two. The brewery only got its license in June 2024 and started selling beer in August, so it is still a very new operation.
MugiWhoa, a brand-new brewery in Kiryu, Gunma? Nice. But what exactly makes a session IPA different from a regular IPA?
Hop BroThe big point is 4.5% ABV and a lighter body. You still get IPA-style hop aroma, but it is designed so you can keep sipping without getting worn out.
MugiHold on, hop aroma always sounds so expert-coded. So basically my nose gets the trailer before the beer even hits the screen?
Hop BroHonestly, that is a pretty solid translation. Chigira also uses Akagi Mountain underground water and leans into an American-style profile, so the crisp, fragrant side stands out.
MugiUnderground water too? Akagi Mountain water makes it sound like someone canned a mountain breeze and handed me a glass.
Hop BroDramatic, but not totally wrong. They are pitching this one as a beer you can gulp when you want to reset, and it really feels like an open-now beer.
MugiThat does it, I am thirsty already. I want to end the day with LIT session IPA and hear that can crack right now.
A second release
Craft Ale Chigira, a brewery in Kiryu, Gunma, has unveiled a new beer called `LIT session IPA`. On the brewery’s official page, it is introduced as the second release following Cloud Nine Dog, with a refreshing hop aroma and an easy-drinking profile meant for moments when you want something crisp and satisfying. The beer is listed as a session IPA with 4.5% ABV.
About the brewery
Craft Ale Chigira obtained its brewing license in June 2024 and began selling beer in August of the same year. According to the brewery’s website, it brews in Shinto, Kiryu City, using underground water from Mount Akagi and focusing on malt and hops. Its lineup emphasizes American-style aroma and flavor, which gives the brewery a clear and recognizable direction.
What to expect
Session IPA is a style that keeps the hop character of an IPA while remaining lighter and more approachable. LIT session IPA appears to follow that idea closely. It is the kind of beer that should work well when you want hop aroma without committing to a heavier beer, making it a natural fit for casual drinking occasions.
In context
With this release, Craft Ale Chigira continues to build its identity as a small brewery from Kiryu with a distinct beer-making approach. The new beer adds another step to a lineup that is still growing, and it will be interesting to see how the brewery develops its next releases.
Information may be inaccurate. Please refer to the brewery’s official channels for the latest details.
Hop BroA fresh one just dropped from Kiryu, Gunma: Craft Ale Chigira is rolling out its second beer, "LIT session IPA," and this one sounds built for easy drinking.
MugiWait, LIT session IPA? That name already sounds like it comes with fireworks. And second beer means they are already on a streak?
Hop BroYep, it follows Cloud Nine Dog as release number two. The brewery only got its license in June 2024 and started selling beer in August, so it is still a very new operation.
MugiWhoa, a brand-new brewery in Kiryu, Gunma? Nice. But what exactly makes a session IPA different from a regular IPA?
Hop BroThe big point is 4.5% ABV and a lighter body. You still get IPA-style hop aroma, but it is designed so you can keep sipping without getting worn out.
MugiHold on, hop aroma always sounds so expert-coded. So basically my nose gets the trailer before the beer even hits the screen?
Hop BroHonestly, that is a pretty solid translation. Chigira also uses Akagi Mountain underground water and leans into an American-style profile, so the crisp, fragrant side stands out.
MugiUnderground water too? Akagi Mountain water makes it sound like someone canned a mountain breeze and handed me a glass.
Hop BroDramatic, but not totally wrong. They are pitching this one as a beer you can gulp when you want to reset, and it really feels like an open-now beer.
MugiThat does it, I am thirsty already. I want to end the day with LIT session IPA and hear that can crack right now.
