Shonan Sansho IPA is a 6% spiced beer from Shonan Beer, based in Kagawa, in Kanagawa, Japan. It’s part of their limited edition range and can be found in both bottle and on tap across Japan. Shonan Sansho IPA is brewed, as the name suggests, using sansho, better known as Japanese pepper, or Korean pepper.
Shonan Sansho IPA Aroma and Taste
Shonan Sansho IPA poured out a dark golden orange colour with a plump white head on top, but we’re not here for the looks, are we? For me, sansho is second behind yuzu-kosho in terms of the best spices to add to your Japanese food. It’s vibrant, pungent spiciness is a thing of beauty. And with Shonan Sansho IPA, Shonan Beer have nailed that on the head. Shonan Sansho IPA had all that spiciness bottled up, along with some hints of lemon and yuzu going on too – a well-balanced aroma going on.
The body kicked up with some spicy heat, that faded fast for those who aren’t strong with spicy heat. The smoothing, tart lemon flavours helped soften some of that kick too, before allowing the sweetness of the malts to come through. As Shonan Sansho IPA warmed up, the intensity of the spiciness did strengthen a little bit, but not enough to blow your head off. The lingering lemon flavours stayed right into the aftertaste but be warned – cumulative sips didn’t lessen the heat from the sansho.
Shonan Sansho IPA The Bottom Line
Shonan Sansho IPA was a really good mix of spice and lemon – one is enough but two would still be good.
Where to Buy Shonan Sansho IPA
Shonan Sansho IPA can be bought online at the following places:
