Hitachino Session IPA : Background
Hitachino Session IPA is a 4.5% Session IPA from Hitachino Nest Beer, based in Naka, Ibaraki. It’s part of their regular lineup, and is available in both cans and on tap. This is the second time for us to have this beer, with the first being the draught version. This version is brewed using solely Amarillo hops imported from the US.
At A Glance
- ABV : 4.5%
- Style : Session IPA
- Hops : Amarillo
- Adjuncts : –
- IBU : –
Sale Information
- Availability : Regular
- On Sale : –
- Size : 330 ml
Hitachino Session IPA : Appearance, Aroma, and Taste
Hitachino Session IPA poured out a dull straw colour with a thin layer of bubbles on top that dissipated quickly away to leave just a couple of top.
In terms of aroma, this canned version had clearly been stored well as unlike that draught version I had a long time ago, this version tasted vibrant – floral with some citrusy notes of grapefruit and lemon. The hop aroma was long lasting, and welcome, though it didn’t develop into anything else. The malts laid in the background, with just a light biscuit sweetness underpining it all.
The body began with a smooth yet balanced bitterness which then developed into the citrus notes as found in the nose. Amarillo is a hop that doesn’t get much love anymore, but here it’s used well and Hitachino Session IPA is a solid showcase of its flavours. The citrus notes lasted throughout drinking with a touch of floral bringing it all together.
Hitachino Session IPA : The Bottom Line
This is a solid session IPA and while the choice of hop is perhaps out of sync with modern session IPAs, it does what its supposed to do well.
Hitachino Session IPA : Where to Buy
It can be bought online at the following places:
