Toga Party
MAP Brewing Co.

a version of the mexican lager done with togarashi, which i dont think ive seen in a beer before, especially one so light and minimal where it shows up this obviously, very neat addition to this, pretty heavy handed, but this isnt something you want to have to go looking for, i like the way its dosed. some heat, some herbal character, some umami, and the base lager, somewhat surprisingly, seems well equipped to handle all this action, which is great. the base beer is very light, its well lagered, i like it as it is, but the togarashi really transforms it. i get some light smoke and chili oil in the nose, the savory seaweed and earthy sesame character there too, floral too, neat with the corn in the mash and the light sweetness there, and as peppy as this is, its lagered very well and keeps its crispness, like it all happens pretty fast, which is a nice flow rate for this, quick quick. some light back of throat pepper heat to this but also more chili flavor than heat, a hint of ginger juicy freshness and spice there too, less of the seaweed and the sesame in the taste but definitely a somewhat salty thing happening, curious but kind of addicting. the chili might be a touch high in the flavor, it lingers some and it takes over maybe some of the nuance from the other togarashi elements, but its delicious anyway. sort of like a japanese version of an everything bagel, but as a beer, lots going on. cool savory character works great with the malt in this, subtle hops make it springy and delicate still, and the high carbonation is spot on, love how clean it still drinks, and if you like some heat and interest in your beer, give this one a shot. very creative, even if i dont want three of them. these guys are on a roll right now!