Hop Kotan Brewery in Kamifurano, Hokkaido, is introducing a collaboration beer with BLACK TIDE BREWING of Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture. This project was carried out as part of a "five-brewery collab" to celebrate BLACK TIDE BREWING's 5th anniversary, and was produced as a "cross collaboration" in which both breweries brewed on their own equipment.

Hop Kotan's beer is a Hazy IPA called "Crossroads". According to the brewery, the base uses BLACK TIDE BREWING's recipe and methods, with Citra and New Zealand Pacific Sunrise at the core, aiming for citrus and tropical impressions. In addition, it incorporates mash hopping and the addition of hop terpene extract, both firsts for Hop Kotan, creating a beer built with layered aroma. The can size is 330 ml, and the ABV is 7.5%.

On the flavor side, it is described as offering aromas reminiscent of sweet lemon, mango, and plum, along with nuances of white grape and peach. The body is silky, the finish is not overly sweet, and the drinking impression is kept crisp. Beyond the hop selection, the brewing process itself includes thoughtful touches, making this a beer packed with collaboration-specific experimentation.

Meanwhile, BLACK TIDE BREWING has released "Tidal V - Cold IPA". This is a Cold IPA made with rice flour and brewed as a limited release featuring Cascade from Kamifurano. Built around hops such as Motueka, Cascade, Citra, and Centennial, it is designed with citrus, tropical notes, and a dry finish in mind. The ABV is listed at 7%.

Hop Kotan Brewery is known for making beers that make the most of Hokkaido ingredients and local character. With its roots in Kamifurano, a hop-producing area, the brewery brings a strong sense of place to collaborations like this one as well, foregrounding the character of local ingredients. This collaboration with BLACK TIDE BREWING is likely to draw attention as a project where the strengths of both breweries intersect.