A craft beer born from Tokyo’s centre of subculture, Shimokitazawa

Summer 2021 is already turning out to be a scorcher here in Japan. Of the few things that can offer respite from the turgid heat, none is more satisfying than an ice-cold beer. And of all the ice-cold beers on offer in Japan, there’s a new collaboration IPA that might just be the most satisfying!

While the taste profile of this beer is a big part of what makes it hit the spot with such pinpoint accuracy, the spirit (no pun intended) in which it is produced is also key. The beer in question is made by CRAFTROCK BREWING, a beer pub in Tokyo’s Nihonbashi district. CRAFTROCK BREWING, which by the way, had a spacious live music space, aims to connect craft beer and music culture in Tokyo. This is why the brewpub has recently collaborated with a restaurant local to Tokyo’s most popping music neighbourhood, Shimokitazawa, to produce a very special craft brew. And what better marriage is there than a cool beer and great tunes on a summer evening?

The Maboneng IPA

The store that partnered with CRAFTROCK and gave this beer its name is called Maboneng, owned by Hauten Co., Ltd. Maboneng is a popular bar and restaurant in Shimokitazawa that serves craft beers and Japanese pub-style dishes. The store name is a South African word meaning “place of light”, and this influence is keenly felt in the collaboration beer.

The Maboneng IPA is made with two types of South African hops "African Queen" and "Southern Passion". The hops have aromas of kumquat, lychee, and jackfruit. The flavor of this IPA meanwhile exudes sweet summer oranges and the malty aftertaste is of grapefruit. This beer is a gorgeous balance of umami and bitterness. It nicely combines tropical and citrus flavors for a drink that is perfect for summer.

Where to drink the Maboneng IPA?

The Maboneng IPA is available to drink in CRAFTROCK BREWING’s brewpub in Nihonbashi, or on their online store. Check out the details of the beer, and how to buy it below:

Maboneng IPA Information

Product Name:
ABV: 6.0%
Price 3600 JPY (price includes two 1 litre cans)
Online Store
At the time of writing, the advanced pre-order period has ended but it may return to the store at an unspecified future date.

CRAFTROCK BREWING Brew Pub Information