The Red Owl | Hitachino Nest Beer

While the quest for the red owl may sound like an underground secret society, the bird in question is part of the quirky logo on Hitachino Nest Beer from Japan. Since its launch in 2000, the award winning beer has caused a cult-like following in the United States with its innovative brews, original branding and limited availability.

Created at the Kiuchi Brewery, known for their top rated sake since 1823, Hitachino Nest Beer is made in small batches and offers a collection of fermented ales ranging from the smooth Sweet Stout to the full bodied Celebration Ale.

Two of their most coveted brews are the White Ale, a mildly hopped Belgium style beer with a hint of coriander, orange peel and nutmeg, and the Red Rice Ale (perhaps one the last ales of its kind) which features complex sake flavors with a touch of strawberries.

Stylish enough to drink from the bottle, the beer will certainly be a conversation starter at your next party. Guests might even take home the shiny black beer caps which are adorned with the brand’s signature red owl.

You can search for the hard-to-find brews at Whole Foods and BevMo nationwide. As for restaurants and bars, it’s been rumored to make an appearance at Spitzers Corner and Little Giant in New York as well as the Swell and The Monk’s Kettle in San Francisco.

PHOTO CREDIT: Hitachino Nest Beer

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