Beer of the Week: Japanese Dark Lager

Koo Miyake is a maker of many things. Not only does he brew beer. He’s also a distiller of spirits, as well as a crafter of hard sparkling teas and other alternative adult beverages, not just here but in his native Japan. His résumé includes time spent at Boochcraft, Cutwater Spirits and Kové. The latter is a business that underwent multiple permutations, starting as a hard yerba maté enterprise and eventually morphing into a canned cocktail company. Miyake was part of that business up until it shuttered last year, and enthusiastically took over its base of operations at Miramar’s lease-to-brew Brewery Igniter facility to install his own operation. Going by the name Koobrew, the multifaceted new arrival started out as a producer of alternative beverages with a limited number of beers on tap. But over the past four months, Miyake says the reception to his beers has been so positive (accounting for roughly half of his total tasting room sales) that he’s decided to increase ale and lager production to meet patron demand. The quality Koobrew’s early adopters are responding to is on full display in this week’s feature beer, Japanese Dark Lager. A rice lager layered with roasty, cola-like flavors born of deeper-kilned specialty malts, the beer is an easy-drinking everyday crusher with added character. It’s no wonder imbibers have taken to Miyake’s beer-brewing skills, and it’s terrific to see him responding to their tastes.

Koobrew’s Japanese Dark Lager is built around balance, where easy drinkability meets a gentle, toasty character that feels warm rather than heavy. It pours clean and smooth like a classic Japanese lager, but carries a soft layer of roasted grain that gives it depth without overpowering your palate. The toastiness comes through like lightly browned bread crust with a touch of toffee, making each sip comforting and satisfying. This is the kind of beer that fits perfectly as your one pint after work when you just want to relax and unwind. It also works beautifully as the last drink of the night after cocktails, whiskey or wine, gently bringing you back to the simple joy of a good beer. You could easily picture yourself drinking it by a small campfire with friends, laughing and taking it easy as the evening slows down. Overall, it’s approachable, cozy and familiar, yet thoughtfully crafted; a meeting point where traditional Japanese beer culture meets the easy rhythm of San Diego’s relaxed lifestyle.”

Koo Miyake, Founder & Head Brewer, Koobrew

Koobrew is located at the Brewery Igniter campus at 9030 Kenamar Drive, Suite 308 in Miramar