Shiga Kogen Takashi in Paris Imperial Stout Review

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Shiga Kogen Beer Takashi in Paris Full Review – 15-Month Cognac Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout (Limited 4,425 Bottles)

Shiga Kogen Beer’s special limited brew “Takashi in Paris / Imperial Stout aged in Cognac Barrels” is the ultimate imperial stout aged 15 months in premium French cognac barrels. Despite its imposing specs of 10.5% ABV and 28 IBU, saison yeast fermentation yields a surprisingly dry finish. An artistic brew featuring complex aromas of cassis, prune, and dried grape, with rich rum raisin-like flavors.

What You’ll Learn

  • The special brewing process and aging of “Takashi in Paris”
  • Complex flavor characteristics from cognac barrel aging
  • Basics of Belgian Imperial Stout
  • The rarity and enjoyment of limited-edition brews
Shiga Kogen Beer Takashi in Paris bottle front with elegant label design
Special label designed by the brewer’s daughter
ルネちゃん
ルネちゃん

“Takashi in Paris” – what a fun name! How is it different from the regular “Takashi”?

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りほくん

According to the official description, the concept is “Takashi, dressed up a bit for a trip to France.” It’s a special version rebuilt from scratch for cognac barrel aging, with revised malt recipes, different hop varieties, and finished as a Belgian Imperial Stout using saison yeast.

Takashi in Paris: Basic Information

Beer StyleBarrel-Aged Imperial Stout (Belgian)
ABV10.5%
IBU28
SRMBlack (40+ SRM)
Limited Edition4,425 bottles
Aging Period15 months
Aging BarrelFrench cognac barrel
YeastSaison yeast
Label DesignBrewer’s daughter (one of twins)

Brewer’s Comment

As the name suggests, this is an imperial stout aged for 15 months in barrels from a famous French cognac house. Our signature imperial stout is the Takashi Imperial Stout, but this time it’s a special version rebuilt from scratch for cognac barrel aging.

We revised the malt recipe, deliberately changed the hop varieties to let the barrel character shine, and significantly reduced the hop quantity. We also used saison yeast for fermentation – essentially a Belgian Imperial Stout.

Characterized by complex aromas from the cognac barrel, with nuances of cassis and prune, plus the dried grape impression unique to cognac. A smooth drinking experience with subtle acidity and soft sweetness. Despite its imposing specs, it’s surprisingly dry and clean.

Source: Tamamura Honten Official Website (accessed: July 1, 2025)

Beginner’s Guide: Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout

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ホプくん

Barrel-aged imperial stout is a beer style where high-ABV (8%+) imperial stouts are aged in barrels! Using whiskey, brandy, or wine barrels imparts the original spirit’s flavors, adding complex notes of vanilla, oak, and tannin. Aging ranges from months to years, mellowing the flavor and softening the alcohol bite over time!

Tasting Review

👁️ Appearance

Deep, solid black. So dark that no light passes through even when held up. Cream-colored foam with good retention, forming beautiful lacing on the glass rim.

👃 Aroma

Orthonasal: Sweet malt aroma like brown sugar or anmitsu (Japanese dessert), with caramel overtones. Hop aroma is restrained but refreshing. Belgian yeast-derived phenolics reminiscent of Trappist beers. Just before sipping, a soy sauce-like quality intensifies – a cool soy that would pair with tai (sea bream).

Retronasal: Rum raisin-like green notes and acidity. Moderate hop bitterness. A subtle citrus accompaniment. The liquid is permeated with cognac barrel character. Refreshing sensation through the nose after drinking. A toasty cookie-like malt impression is definitely present.

Taste & Texture

Mouthfeel: Low carbonation with a gentle entry. Whiskey-like mouthfeel.

Body & Texture: More like high-cacao bitter chocolate with citrus peel than sweet chocolate. The liquid is dry rather than heavy. Despite low carbonation, there’s a strong acidic impression. Also a nutty, protein-like quality. Slightly oily, with a very pleasant alcohol-derived coolness.

Shiga Kogen Beer Takashi in Paris side label with special brewing details
Cognac barrel aging details

Aftertaste

The Swallow: Dry.

Aftertaste: Beyond rum raisin, dried grape aroma lingers long. Would pair wonderfully with sweets – makes you crave cake.

Bottle Bottom: Concentrated rum raisin juice. Slight hop persistence. Alcohol comes through as coolness. Delicious.

ルネちゃん
ルネちゃん

An imperial stout with saison yeast – that’s rare! What characteristics does it have?

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ホプくん

Using saison yeast in an imperial stout results in higher attenuation and a drier finish than typical stouts! It also adds phenolic (spicy) aromas, creating a more complex flavor profile. In this beer, it manifests as a clarity of aroma reminiscent of Trappist beers and a surprisingly clean drinking experience!

Overall Impression

You can fully enjoy the fascinating qualities of cognac barrel aging. Beyond the barrel-soaked aromas, the liquid itself is remarkably dry and versatile with food pairings. I think the pairing with ice cream would be unbeatable.

Recommended Pairings

Based on brewer’s suggestions and personal impressions, I recommend these pairings:

  • Official Recommendation: Cheesecake with nuts, dried fruit, and berry sauce
  • Personal Pick: Vanilla ice cream, chocolate desserts
  • Japanese Cuisine: Sashimi (especially tai/sea bream), soy-based simmered dishes
  • Cheese: Blue cheese, aged cheddar

Related Products

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ホプくん

Here are some recommended products for those interested in barrel-aged beers and imperial stouts!

The World of Shiga Kogen Beer

志賀高原ビール Imperial Stout たかし

The flagship imperial stout that serves as the base for Takashi in Paris. Complex flavors to enjoy.

👉 Browse on Rakuten

志賀高原ビール ふるさと納税セット

A furusato nozei return gift featuring Shiga Kogen Beer’s representative selection.

👉 Browse on Rakuten

Imperial Stout専用グラス

A snifter glass designed for high-ABV beers. Concentrates aromas for enhanced enjoyment.

👉 Browse on Rakuten

🥃 バレルエイジドビールの世界

サンクトガーレン インペリアルチョコレートスタウト

A premier Japanese imperial stout. Enjoy its chocolate flavors.

👉 Browse on Rakuten

『バレルエイジドビールの教科書』

A specialist book covering the history, techniques, and tasting of barrel-aged beers.

👉 Browse on Rakuten

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Start with the standard Shiga Kogen Beer “Takashi” and gradually explore the world of barrel-aged beers. A dedicated glass enhances the aroma experience!

📚 参考情報

Trusted sources used for fact-checking this article:

Note: Information may change without notice. Please check official websites for the latest details.

👉 Recommended Craft Beer特集

よくある質問

Q: 限定4425本は完売しましたか?

A: 2023年7月リリースの限定醸造品で、希少性が高いです。在庫状況は販売店により異なりますので、玉村本店や志賀高原ビール公式サイトで最新情報をご確認ください。

Q: コニャック樽熟成の特徴は何ですか?

A: From the cognac barrel come complex fruit aromas of dried grape, cassis, and prune, along with oak character.15ヶ月の長期熟成により、アルコールの刺激が和らぎ、滑らかな口当たりになります。

Q: セゾン酵母を使う理由は?

A: Saison yeast has high attenuation, which tends to be heavy, Imperial Stout yields a drier finish。また、ベルギー系の複雑なフェノール香も加わり、resulting in a more refined flavor profile。

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