The Sun of Setouchi in Your Glass: Rokko Beer Brewery Launches Limited Summer Craft Beer 'Setouchi LEMON Ale' on July 13

Rokko Beer Brewery (IN International Co., Ltd.), based in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, will launch its limited summer craft beer 'Setouchi LEMON Ale' nationwide starting Monday, July 13, 2026.

This product uses 'Doho Lemons' cultivated on Toyoshima Island, floating in the Seto Inland Sea of Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Utilizing the innovative natural farming method 'DOHO STYLE (Doho Style),' the brewery generously incorporates both the peel and juice of these lemons, creating a harmonious blend of refreshing citrus aroma and a dry finish—perfect for summer dining.

Background of Product Development

Rokko Beer Brewery has long been rooted in the foothills of Rokko Mountain in Kobe, producing craft beers that have earned international acclaim (SAISON won a gold medal at the 'International Brewing Awards 2026'). Seasonal craft beers that highlight seasonal ingredients have always been one of the brewery's core commitments.

For this summer, the brewery focused on the theme of 'commitment to ingredient origin,' placing the Doho Lemons—nurtured by Setouchi's rich natural environment—center stage in developing this new product. From fruit selection to brewing, every step is meticulously handled in-house without compromise. The selection process prioritizes larger fruits for their richer aroma, and tasks such as peeling and removing the white pith are done entirely by hand. The team conducted extensive trials to achieve the ideal flavor profile, aiming to fully express the lemon’s complex, natural taste—a true Rokko Beer signature.

This product will be available in two formats: cans (350ml) and kegs (15L).

Commitment to Ingredients: 'Doho Lemons' and DOHO STYLE

The lemons used are 'Doho Lemons' grown on Toyoshima Island in Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture, located in the Seto Inland Sea. DOHO STYLE (Doho Style) is an innovative farming method that maximizes the power of plant hormones, enhancing fruit sweetness and quality through pruning and moisture control alone—without chemical fertilizers or pesticides. By cultivating in harmony with nature, crops express their inherent vitality.

Lemons grown using this method fully express the plant’s natural life force. The result is exceptionally large fruits—over twice the size of regular lemons. A key feature is their deep flavor, even in the peel, with a balanced, natural tartness and subtle sweetness that avoids heaviness.

At Rokko Beer Brewery, both the peel and juice of these lemons are used. The aromatic compounds from the peel combine with the natural acidity of the juice, capturing authentic citrus nuances in the craft beer—something artificial flavorings cannot replicate.

Product Features

'Setouchi LEMON Ale' is based on the fruit ale style, featuring a golden hue and a mild citrus aroma. Bitterness is gently restrained to highlight the lemon flavor, resulting in a dry yet highly drinkable beer. The lemon’s natural acidity and pleasant aftertaste linger comfortably.

Designed as a food-pairing beer, it pairs exceptionally well with Japanese dishes such as fried chicken, sashimi, grilled fish, and tempura. Its clear, approachable flavor also makes it ideal for craft beer beginners. The brewery plans to continue releasing this beer annually as a summer staple.

※This product is classified as 'happoshu (malt ratio 50% or higher)' under Japan’s liquor tax law, due to the volume of fruit (lemon) and other adjuncts exceeding beer standards. However, the malt ratio remains equivalent to that of beer.

Product Overview

Item

Content

Product Name

Setouchi LEMON Ale [Seasonal Limited]

Tax Classification

Happoshu (Malt ratio 50% or higher)

Ingredients

Malt (imported), Oat, Honey, Lemon Peel, Hops, Lemon Juice

Container

Can (350ml)

Alcohol Content

5.0%

Style

Fruit Ale (using fresh lemon peel)

IBU

23

Release Date

July 13, 2026 (Monday)

Sales Area

Nationwide

Suggested Retail Price

Can (350ml): 495 JPY (excluding tax)

※Keg (15L) pricing will be announced separately.

About Rokko Beer Brewery

Rokko Beer Brewery is a craft beer brewery located in Kita Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture. It has received high acclaim both domestically and internationally, including a gold medal for SAISON at the 'International Brewing Awards 2026' (Smallpack Ale Class 3). The brewery offers a diverse lineup including SAISON, BAYALE, and Kobe Ale, and actively develops seasonal craft beers that highlight seasonal ingredients.