Beer of the Week: The Assassin
Julian Beer Co. grows its roster of bottom-fermented options with a Japanese-style rice lager that slays, especially in the heat of summer
When I was growing up in the ‘80s, there was an occupation that was experiencing a moment like it had never known, one which has yet to be rivaled since: ninja. Were you to ask most young boys of my time what they wanted to be when they grew up, they may have said soldier, police officer, firefighter or perhaps even professional wrestler, but they secretly held out hope they would one day punch a nocturnal clock, don a hooded onyx uniform and go about their clandestine business like the stealthful characters they saw everywhere – movies, TV, comic books – putting their meticulously honed certain set of skills to work for the highest bidder…or the government. I mean, not only Cobra, but G.I. Joe (the good guys, for cryin’ out loud) employed not one, but multiple ninjas. And they were awesome! The ubiquitousness of ninjas left an indelible mark on the psyches of young ‘uns like me. Need proof? I invite you to take a gander at the name of this week’s featured beer, The Assassin. Like ninjas in the ‘80s, Japanese-style lagers are having a moment in the here and now. Matthew Pitman, partner and Head Brewer at mountain brewpub Julian Beer Co., has been introducing more and more bottom-fermented beers to his tap list. When he decided to add a Japanese-inspired rice lager to the mix, he knew in an instant what it would be called, and named it for The Land of the Rising Sun’s agile, incredibly zen guns-for-hire. It turns out it’s a fitting name, because in the midst of the viscous summer heat (we’re only on the cusp of), this beer straight up slays. A vanquisher of thirst, The Assassin is light-bodied and easy-drinking, offering Rice Chex cereal notes and the slightest hint of minerality. It’s a nice bit of complexity that renders this crispy boi a katana cut above your average lawnmower beer.
The Assassin is a Japanese-style rice lager coning in at 5.3% (alcohol-by-volume). It was made and designed by Brewer Robyn Spevacek. This beer pairs well with the JBC’s pizza and barbecue menu, and is a welcome addition to the brewery’s growing list of lager options. With a touch of Southern Cross and Callista hops, the flavor profile comes across crisp and clean. with a light lemony twist.”
Matthew Pitman, Head Brewer, Julian Beer Co.
Julian Beer Co. is located at 2307 Main Street in Julian