Echigo is proudly advertising itself as Japan’s first micro-brewery, so I was understandably looking forward to one of their major products, a rice lager.

It’s pale straw color, and the head disappears really quickly after poured out, leaving only some weak lacing behind.

It smells lager. The hops are clearly there, but I didn’t expect any overwhelming bitterness from it.

The body’s light, but with a soft touch, which teamed with the medium carb makes the mouthfeel quite refreshing. The taste is…

The taste is above me. I know that rice is famous for its tastelessness, but after all it promised to my nose I expected something more bold. It’s well balanced, that much is for sure, with a mild bitterness and a matching sweetness. Most likely I’m simply not good enough to pick up tastes this faint… It really felt like there was nothing in addition to the neutral malt-hop balance. I could notice some characteristic lager tones if I focused really strong, but that was my limit.

After the bit disappointing taste, the finish makes sure to end the day on a positive note. It’s dry, with a grainy aftertaste.

I guess it’s a good summer drink, but I’d like something with a bit more taste to it…