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The flagship of Kirin's craft-leaning Spring Valley line. 1.5x the malt of standard lager, 6 hop varieties, and a complex multi-layered profile.
Spring Valley is Kirin's serious craft-direction brand. The “<496>” designation refers to 4 malts and 6 hops in combination.
Uses 1.5x the malt of standard Ichiban Shibori, with 4 malt varieties and 6 hop types. Developed over six months and released nationally in 2021 — Kirin's most serious step toward craft.
Citrus hop notes, substantial malt sweetness, firm bitterness, long finish. A complete experience in a single glass — strongly favored by drinkers who tire of light lagers. ABV 6.0%.
Pairs with goat cheese, lemon-marinated grills, ethnic cuisine, sauteed white fish — anything with acidity or herbs. Enjoyable for craft-style food matching.
Serve at 8-10°C to release aromas. A tulip or wine glass is recommended. The flavor evolves as it warms — savor over 30 minutes or more.
Spring Valley Brewery is the 1869 Yokohama brewery that became Kirin's predecessor. The name was revived in 2017 as Kirin's craft-direction brand. Lineup includes Houjun <496>, Silk Ale, and Japan Summer Ale.
A gateway for drinkers starting to find mass-market lager unsatisfying. Find places serving Houjun <496> on Minnama.