Zao Brewery launches its first non-alcoholic beer, ZAO ZERO
Zao Brewery in Yamagata has released ZAO ZERO, its first non-alcoholic beer. The 0.00% ABV beer highlights a rich malt-and-hop aroma and a crisp drinking feel, and is now on sale in stores and online.
Hop BroHere’s a fun one: Zao Brewery in Yamagata just launched its first non-alcohol beer, ZAO ZERO.
MugiWait, a craft brewery made a 0.00% non-alcohol beer? Does it still feel like actual beer?
Hop BroThat’s the interesting part. It aims for malt-and-hop aroma with a crisp, satisfying drinkability.
MugiHold on, what does a crisp finish even mean? Does the can unsheathe a sword on your tongue?
Hop BroNothing that dramatic. It means the aftertaste clears fast, so it doesn’t linger heavily and makes you want another sip.
MugiOhhh! So on driving days or early-morning nights, you still get beer-time vibes without the alcohol?
Hop BroExactly. It’s 350ml for 270 yen, and in-store and online sales make it easy to pick up.
MugiZao Brewery is Yamagata City’s first brewery, right? Does this still carry that local character?
Hop BroIt does. With Zao spring-water identity and Yamagata’s natural character behind it, this feels like a new option alongside beers like SNOW MONSTER and their cherry releases.
MugiThat sounds perfect. Honestly, I want to try one whether I’m drinking alcohol or not, and now I’m picturing myself waiting by the fridge.
Hop BroSame here. This is a can to chill now. Drinking day or not, being part of the cheers makes me want one already.
The brewery's first non-alcoholic beer
Zao Brewery has introduced ZAO ZERO, its first non-alcoholic beer. The beer is listed at 0.00% alcohol and is designed to deliver a full beer-like experience with a rich aroma from malt and hops, plus a crisp finish. It comes in a 350ml format and is priced at 270 yen including tax. Sales are available at the brewery's shop and through its online store.
Built for days when alcohol is not an option
The launch message makes clear who this beer is for: people who want a beer moment even when they cannot drink alcohol. It is aimed at situations such as driving days, nights before an early morning, or family gatherings where everyone wants to share a toast. Rather than presenting it as a substitute with compromises, ZAO ZERO is positioned as a practical, easy-to-reach choice for those moments.
A Yamagata brewery rooted in place
Zao Brewery is based in Zao Ueno, Yamagata City, and describes itself as Yamagata City's first craft brewery. The brewery emphasizes the use of spring water nurtured by the natural environment of Zao and local ingredients from Yamagata, producing fresh beer that reflects the region. Its overall message, "Rediscover Zao through beer," frames the brewery as both a beer producer and a local storyteller.
That background matters here. Alongside beers inspired by local identity, such as its snow-and-chill themed white beer and fruit-forward seasonal releases, ZAO ZERO expands the lineup into a category that many beer fans now actively look for. For the brewery, it is a straightforward but meaningful addition: a non-alcoholic option that still aims to carry the flavor language and regional character of the Zao brand.
Information may be inaccurate. Please refer to the brewery’s official channels for the latest details.
Hop BroHere’s a fun one: Zao Brewery in Yamagata just launched its first non-alcohol beer, ZAO ZERO.
MugiWait, a craft brewery made a 0.00% non-alcohol beer? Does it still feel like actual beer?
Hop BroThat’s the interesting part. It aims for malt-and-hop aroma with a crisp, satisfying drinkability.
MugiHold on, what does a crisp finish even mean? Does the can unsheathe a sword on your tongue?
Hop BroNothing that dramatic. It means the aftertaste clears fast, so it doesn’t linger heavily and makes you want another sip.
MugiOhhh! So on driving days or early-morning nights, you still get beer-time vibes without the alcohol?
Hop BroExactly. It’s 350ml for 270 yen, and in-store and online sales make it easy to pick up.
MugiZao Brewery is Yamagata City’s first brewery, right? Does this still carry that local character?
Hop BroIt does. With Zao spring-water identity and Yamagata’s natural character behind it, this feels like a new option alongside beers like SNOW MONSTER and their cherry releases.
MugiThat sounds perfect. Honestly, I want to try one whether I’m drinking alcohol or not, and now I’m picturing myself waiting by the fridge.
Hop BroSame here. This is a can to chill now. Drinking day or not, being part of the cheers makes me want one already.
