Barrel-aged saison meets wine-grape character

Yorocco Beer Iwase Brewery has introduced two beers from its collaboration with Beau Paysage, a winery based in Hokuto, Yamanashi. The publicly available information identifies the beers as 2023-vintage releases in the Y/B/A/P series: Gewürztraminer and Nebbiolo.

The project begins with a saison aged in wooden barrels. Grape pomace from Beau Paysage is then steeped in the beer, adding grape-derived aroma and tannic nuance without simply blending wine into the beer. The result combines the dry, expressive character of saison with the complexity of wood, fermentation, and grape varieties.

Two grape varieties, two expressions

“Y/B/A/P #014 Barrel Saison / Gewürztraminer” is described as having spicy and refreshing qualities associated with Gewürztraminer. “Y/B/A/P #015 Barrel Saison / Nebbiolo,” meanwhile, is presented as softer and deeper in character. Nebbiolo is known for aromas reminiscent of roses, cherries, and plums, with further complexity developing over time.

Although both beers share the same barrel-aged saison foundation, the grape varieties give them distinct personalities. Tasting them side by side should make the differences in fruit character, acidity, oak, and fermentation particularly clear.

Yorocco Beer is based in Kamakura, Kanagawa, and produces a broad range of beers, including saisons, lagers, and beers made with local ingredients. Its work with Beau Paysage is a natural extension of that exploratory approach, connecting brewing and winemaking through shared materials and maturation. Availability and serving locations should be checked through the brewery’s official channels.