Miyuki and I just finished brewing up her birthday white ale. As coincidence would have it, it was our 24th homebrew in Japan brewed on her 24th birthday. Strange how these things work out. Wait a sec, Miyuki just informed me that it will be called Miyuki's White Trash Ale. Anyway, while we were waiting for the wort to cool down we went and got lunch at Atsumi Foods. Right above all the beautiful Ji-Beer they stock was the new Kirin Free.The can is covered with many boasts written in English. First glance gives you "Alc. 0.00%" and "Alcohol Free: Original Yeast-Free Process". A closer look reveals "Kirin's Innovation. The alcohol-free beertaste beverage" and "Refreshing and rich taste for your free life!"
Let's not candy coat it. This stuff tastes horrible. Miyuki said it tastes like chemicals. This is not beer, it is a noxious beer-flavored soda water. This stuff takes pure water, ruins it, then sells it for 140 yen a can. Kirin can market whatever it likes. My big problem with Kirin Free is that it was located right above the Ji-Beer in Atsumi Foods. I saw a younger Japanese man pick up a bottle of Kinshachi's Pilsner, examine it, put it back, then buy a can of Kirin Free! I understand Kinshachi's price tag is a bit steep at 425 yen a bottle, but come on man! Show some respect for what you put in your body!
9 comments:
Notice, it's not just 0% alcohol free, it's 0.00% alcohol free.
Nate...I know we are supposed to find good beers in Japan for others to try...but why in the hell would you buy that?????? Have you lost your mind?
Guys, have you had it 'straight' yet? I'm not recommending you guys try it. A new beer out now. Called straight. Who comes up with these names?
This one Chuwy?
http://www.jibeer.com/search?q=suntory+straight
Yes. Oopsie.
Suntory The Straight.
Saw it when I was at the beach with two guys. Was tempted (to get the beer, not by the two guys), just to imply the other two weren't.
Just bought a bottle of Kinshachi red label for 399 yen at, for whatever crazy reason, the local discount electronics store. Didn't taste as flavorful as I remember it being last year when served on tap at the Great Japan Beer Festival. Will have to try it again at the next festival in June to make sure. :)
p/s - Just did a write-up on The Straight: http://madtokyo.wordpress.com/2009/04/11/im-straight/
For once, I've out-beer'd the boys of good beer and country boys!
Well, the gal in the photo sure does not like it.
I picked up Kirin Free in the hopes I could have one or two with my lunch while still working through a big project I have to finish. I must say, it was disappointing.
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