Kyoto Brewing Kodo wo Yuku First BA Saison Review

Craft Beer Review: Kyoto Brewing / Kodo wo Yuku First BA (Barrel-Aged Saison)

This article is based on a May 2023 tasting experience and was updated in June 2025.

Kyoto Brewing is a Japanese craft brewery established in 2015 in Minami-ku, Kyoto (Kyoto City). “Kodo wo Yuku First BA” is a special version of their popular saison “Kodo wo Yuku,” inoculated with Brett yeast (Brettanomyces) and barrel-aged for 12 months. It features wine-like fruitiness and deeply layered flavors.

Kyoto Brewing / Kodo wo Yuku First BA Basic Information

Appearance (Subjective)

Aroma Profile (Subjective)

The following aroma evaluation is a personal impression. Aroma perception varies.

The first thing you notice is a refined lambic-like acidity. However, unlike typical lambic, there is no persistence; instead, a complex, refined Caesar dressing-like aroma unfolds. The luxury and layered depth from barrel aging makes this beer truly special.

Flavor Profile (Retronasal) – Subjective

From the moment it enters your mouth, this beer speaks to you. Wine-like tannins gently embrace the tongue; you sense weight yet it never becomes cloying.

Detailed Taste Analysis (Subjective)

The following taste evaluation is a personal impression. Taste varies by individual.

舌の上に乗ると、Gentle酸味が広がります。ランビックに近い印象を受けますが、ランビックと呼ぶには重層感がやや控えめ。むしろ白ワインというより赤ワインのような質感、おそらくタンニン由来の渋みが感じられます。

The Swallow and Aftertaste

Overall Rating (Subjective)

About the Bottle Sediment Yeast

Live yeast remains at the bottom of the bottle, and with careful handling, home cultivation may be possible. Due to the activation-like aroma and strong bitterness, I recommend drinking the last sip separately. However, this is also part of the charm, sparking interest in the brewing process.

🛒 購入情報

“Kodo wo Yuku First BA” is a special limited release around May each year. Available at domestic craft beer shops like The Slop Shop, but quantities are limited so early purchase is recommended.

クラフトビールのふるさと納税完全ガイド

ふるさと納税で手に入るクラフトビールをブルワリー別にまとめました。納税先を検討中の方は参考にしてください。

rihobeer.com

2024.07.05

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Other Kyoto Brewing Beer Reviews

Kyoto Brewing’s innovative approach brings fresh energy to Japan’s craft beer scene. Check out our other reviews and enjoy their diverse lineup.

Japan Craft Beer Travel Reports

Riho, who lived in Japan until 2024, shares travel reports on craft beer scenes across the country.Visiting breweries from Hokkaido to Kyushu, reporting on Japanese craft beer culture from taprooms to local pubs. Content on seasonal brews, local ingredients, and brewer conversations available from the tag page below.

Japan アーカイブ - りほのビール旅行記 - アメリカと日本のブルワリー訪問

「Japan」の記事一覧です。

rihobeer.com

References

Reliable sources used for fact-checking:

• 京都醸造 公式サイト – https://kyotobrewing.com/ （Accessed: June 18, 2025）
• 京都醸造 古道をゆく First BA 商品ページ – https://kyotobrewing.com/products/kodo-wo-yuku-first-ba （Accessed: June 18, 2025）
• 京都醸造 公式Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kyotobrewing/ （Accessed: June 18, 2025）
• About Saison Yeast and Brettanomyces – The Mad Fermentationist – https://www.themadfermentationist.com/ （Accessed: June 18, 2025）

Information may change without notice. Check official websites for the latest.

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