Despite not serving shochu, Rairaiken is one of our favorite ramen shops in New York City’s East Village where ramen shops are as popular as dry cleaners in other neighborhoods.
On our last visit they’d added a beer to their menu. At first blush it appears to be a Japanese soba ale direct from Japan. Upon closer inspection, it is Rogue Brewery’s entry into the Japanese Craft Beer craze. It looks to be clearly developed for the Japanese market with Japanese character prominent both on the front label and the back description. Hope that works out for them.
So how is it? It’s an unfiltered “wheat” beer with a mellow flavor. I prefer the crisp, clean flavor of Japanese lagers, but admit they all taste pretty much the same. Sure there are differences, but they are subtle. I’m glad to see Japan taking an interest in craft beer production – getting beyond the Sapporo, Kirin, Asahi trio – and into more complex and interesting beer flavors.
Kampai!