Product of: Japan

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Pronounced 'A-Sa-Hee', meaning rising sun, this Japanese dark lager was developed in 1987 and was Japan's first karakuchi or dry beer. It is brewed with Asahi's No.318 yeast and rice, its dark colour due to the use of heavily roasted malt, indeed it has the appearance of a full-bodied dark ale.

Review and Tasting

Sampled on 26/01/2016

Appearance:

Clear but almost opaque, deep chestnut brown virtually black with moderate beige head and light lacing.

Aroma:

Subdued with slightly burnt toasted baguette crust, thinly spread with Marmite, faint liquorice, grilled nuts and cut grass.

Taste:

Notes of charcoal and burnt malt with faint liquorice, chocolate, coffee, nuts and tobacco. Milder in flavour than its dark colour might suggest.

Aftertaste:

Palate fades with white toast, more liquorice and faint smokiness.

Overall:

Best described as a toasty lager, with a surprisingly approachable aroma and flavour, so appealing to a broader audience than its dark colour might suggest.