1. Orion Draft Beer
The topic of this article is Orion Draft beer, a beer made in Okinawa. This product was unfamiliar to me, as I have never been to Okinawa.
The packaging is apricot-colored, with the words “From Okinawa to the World” and three stars at the top, along with “Orion Okinawa Craft The Draft.” Orion is said to provide a rich and refreshing taste. It has an alcohol content of 5% and comes in a 500ml draft beer product.
On the back, it mentions that the three prominent stars of the Orion constellation in the southern island’s night sky inspired the name of this beer. It suggests that you can enjoy a refreshing taste that feels like a refreshing resort in the southern country, with emerald green seas, white sandy beaches, beautiful shores, and warm-hearted people, all of which are characteristics of Okinawa.
2. Orion Breweries
It all started in 1957 with the Okinawa Beer Company. In 1959, the name was changed to Orion Beer. Initially, it was difficult to manage due to the aggressive competition from large mainland Japanese beer companies, but they differentiated themselves by producing American-style beer.
In the 1990s, they entered the happoshu (low-malt beer) market, but it wasn’t easy. In 2002, they formed a partnership with their major shareholder, Asahi, to begin consignment sales of Orion beer outside Okinawa and the Amami Islands. Orion began producing and distributing Asahi Super Dry in Okinawa. This marked the beginning of Orion beer’s spread to mainland Japan.
3. Tasting Notes
The color is typical of Orion Draft beer, with quite a lot of foam and carbonation. It looks refreshing and crisp, perhaps influenced by the “refreshing southern beer” tagline.
The aroma has a light hint of hops and a slight corn scent, likely due to the inclusion of corn. Upon tasting, it first hits with a cool, refreshing sensation, followed by a slight bitterness, and finishes with a toasty flavor reminiscent of corn tea.
This is quite unique. It’s smooth and nutty, but not very impactful. Thus, it seems well-suited for summer or vacation spots.
4. Product Information
Product Name: Orion The Draft
Food Type: Beer
Origin: Japan
Manufacturer: Orion Breweries Ltd.
Volume and Calories: 500ml (210kcal)
Ingredients: Water, Malt, Corn, Corn Starch, Barley, Rice, Hops
Alcohol Content: 5%
5. Overall Review
In conclusion, after researching and tasting it, I understand why it is said to have an American beer style. The corn flavor reminded me of the United States, possibly because I know that the U.S. produces a lot of corn.
Personally, it wasn’t bad, but I prefer Asahi Super Dry. Therefore, if asked about my intention to repurchase, I would say no.
However, if I ever visit Okinawa, I would definitely try the locally produced Orion draft beer.