In your first spring in Japan, cherry blossoms can arrive almost without warning. One week, the streets look grey. The next, entire cities turn pink with flowers.
If you have lived in Japan long enough, you may plan your weekends around the blossoms. A floral beer inspired by a famous figure from Japanese history makes an interesting addition to the season.
Ryoma Bloom IPA Beer combines a floral character with a name that carries historical significance. It also offers a different way to enjoy Japan’s spring drinking culture.
A floral IPA named for Ryoma
Nippon Beer brews Ryoma Bloom IPA Beer in Tokyo. The product belongs to a modern themed beer series under the Nippon Beer brand.
This Japanese craft IPA contains 4.5% alcohol by volume (ABV). It has a deep golden appearance, a floral hop aroma and a light malt body. However, the available product information does not specify its hop varieties or brewing process. Therefore, we avoid making unsupported claims about its recipe.
The name references Sakamoto Ryoma, the historical figure associated with this themed IPA. Meanwhile, the word “Bloom” reflects its floral aroma.
The hops bring forward floral notes rather than strong bitterness. In addition, the light malt character allows the aroma to stand out.
At 4.5% ABV, it sits at the gentler end of the IPA category. As a result, it offers an approachable option for people who enjoy floral beer styles.
The themed label also adds to its appeal. Nippon Beer sells Ryoma Bloom IPA Beer in 350ml bottles, with 24 bottles per case.
How Ryoma Bloom IPA Beer fits into Japanese drinking culture
In Japan, people often begin a drinking session with kanpai (乾杯). They raise their glasses, make eye contact and share a toast. The expression means “cheers” or “bottoms up.”
Interestingly, similar characters appear in Chinese gānbēi and Korean geonbae. These expressions reflect a shared East Asian tradition of raising a glass together.
A floral, light-bodied IPA also fits naturally into a nomikai. This Japanese after-work drinking gathering brings colleagues and friends together over food and drinks.
For example, try Ryoma Bloom IPA Beer with yakitori, Japan’s popular grilled chicken skewers. The floral hop aroma complements the smoky, grilled flavors.
You can also start with edamame, or salted young soybeans. They make a simple snack before the main dishes arrive.
Later, enjoy different types of otsumami. These small Japanese drinking snacks include pickled vegetables, fried foods and dried seafood.
During spring, hanami offers another opportunity to enjoy Japanese beer. People gather beneath cherry trees to admire the blossoms, share food and enjoy drinks.
Since Ryoma Bloom IPA carries a floral theme, it makes a fitting addition to a cherry-blossom gathering.
How to enjoy Ryoma Bloom IPA Beer in Japan
First, chill the beer before serving. However, avoid freezing it because excessive cold can reduce its aroma.
Next, pour it into a suitable glass. This allows the floral hop character to develop and makes the drinking experience more enjoyable.
For a simple snack, pick up salted cashews from Lawson. Their rich, slightly salty taste complements a hoppy beer.
If you prefer Japanese food, try the IPA with karaage. This popular Japanese fried chicken dish offers a crispy texture and savory flavor. The beer’s hop character can also balance the richness of the fried coating.
Spring is an especially suitable season to enjoy this themed release. The mild weather and cherry blossoms create an inviting setting for a floral beer.
A glass of IPA at a Tokyo craft beer bar can cost ¥900 or more. However, buying Ryoma Bloom IPA Beer by the case at Omori Mart can lower the per-bottle cost.
Get Ryoma Bloom IPA Beer delivered in Japan
Looking for a Japanese IPA with a floral character and a historical theme? Ryoma Bloom IPA Beer is available at Omori Mart.
The store sells this release in cases of 24 bottles, with each bottle containing 350ml.
Here are the available shopping and delivery options:
- Free shipping: Orders over ¥15,000 qualify for free shipping.
- Convenient payment: Pay at FamilyMart, 7-Eleven or Lawson. Bank transfer and card payments are also available.
- Nationwide delivery: Omori Mart delivers across Japan.
You will not find this themed release on Rakuten or Amazon Japan. Instead, order directly from Omori Mart to get this distinctive Japanese beer.
[Shop Ryoma Bloom IPA Beer →]
https://omorimart.com/product/ryoma-bloom-ipa-beer-350ml-x-24-bottles/
Finally, remember the Japanese word kanpai (乾杯). It captures the spirit of sharing a drink with friends. Raise your glass, enjoy the floral character and celebrate the beauty of spring in Japan.