Kirin Akiaji Autumn Seasonal Beer Review

Kirin : 秋味

This article is based on a past tasting experience, updated in June 2025.

About This Beer

Characteristics

Uses approximately 1.3 times the malt (compared to our Kirin Lager Beer) to achieve a satisfying 6% ABV flavor.

Through optimization of ingredient ratios and the brewing process, we achieved a satisfying body from generous malt use while maintaining a clean finish.

https://www.kirin.co.jp/alcohol/beer/akiaji/ From the official website:

They change the packaging almost every year, which is impressive. Kirin Lager is made with malt, rice, corn, and starch. Ichiban Shibori is 100% malt. So Akiaji sits somewhere in between — more malt than Kirin Lager, less than Ichiban Shibori.

Availability

It typically sells out around winter when the last batch has been produced. You might still find it at some liquor stores if they have remaining stock. I couldn’t find the manufacturing date of the final lot.

Where to Buy

Available at supermarkets and convenience stores. I appreciate if you purchase through the links below.

Limited edition Kirin 秋味 350ml 缶 24本 2Case（48本）【Free shipping（Some regions excluded）】Kirin 秋味 Kirinビール 麒麟 ビール kirin kirinbeer 国産 缶ビール 価格：9647円（税込、Free shipping) (2022/10/1時点)

Kirin 秋味 500ml×24本(1Case) 価格：6435円（税込、送料別) (2022/10/1時点)

Beer Review

Aroma

Orthonasal Aroma

Slightly sweet, cookie-like malt aroma. A touch of lager-type esters. Slight oxidized metal.

Retronasal Flavor

A refreshing citrus aroma passes through the nose. Saaz-type perhaps? A sweetness and freshness like lemon peel candied into marmalade with the sugar then removed.

A slight corn note asserts itself in the aroma? Like catching a whiff of the slightly sweet smell of grilling corn at a barbecue.

Taste

Mouthfeel

Natural beer-like quality.

Body and Texture

Excellent balance between malt sweetness and rice, corn, and starch. Light.The sweetness never clings to the tongue.Not overly biscuity.

The Swallow

Refreshing. Yet there’s a certain weight and malt sweetness. Impressive.

Aftertaste

Dry yet with lingering lemon drop and mint-like impressions. Refreshing. A finish that makes you crave meat. Would pair great with yakiniku or steak.

Overall Impression

The use of rice, corn, and starch is masterful. I look forward to this every year, and once again it’s incredibly delicious. Perhaps the heat treatment creates just the right amount of body? It’s so good. The slightly higher ABV is perfect for relaxing. Thank you again this year.

Overall Rating

Where to Purchase

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Kirin : 秋味 — FAQ

Kirin : 秋味 — What does it taste like?

Kirin Akiaji is a seasonal Japanese lager. Please see the full article for a detailed review of the taste, aroma, and appearance.

Kirin : 秋味 — Where can I buy it?

It may be available at specialty craft beer shops or online stores. If hard to find, check out Recommended Craft Beers for other great options.

craft beer — any other recommended options?

We review many craft beer on this site. Complete Guide to Dank IPAやDDH/TDH Beer Explained for more.

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