Beer is Good – Noboribetsu Beer Onidensetsu Kin’oni Pale Ale

While in Noboribetsu, I happened upon a new varietal from Noboribetsu Beer. I’ve had their Ao-oni pilsnener (gold can) and Aka-oni red ale (red can), but this green-labeled glass bottle was a first. Being in bottles instead of cans, I was not taking the chance of bringing any back on the plane, so I just got enough for my immediate use. Named the Kin’oni (gold demon) Pale Ale, it is described on the label as an “American type pale ale”. Cracking the cap, there was only a light hiss of pressure. Since Nobiribetsu Beer’s products are all non-pasteurized bottle/can conditioned craft beers, this worried me a little. These worries were short lived. After pouring the deep amber beer and taking the first taste, my fears were gone. The mouthfeel was the heaviest amongst their other offerings, with a rich caramel malt flavor backed up with a strong hopping. The hops used were both bitter and flowery, giving the ale an overall fruity flavor and aroma. They weren’t being timid with this one! The carbonation level was low. This beer pairs well with salty foods or red meat where the sweetness of the hopping stands up to heavier, savory food flavors, and the bitter finish refreshes the palate, but this beer truly shines when enjoyed unaccompanied.