Upcycling Nagano forest thinnings into craft Forest Echo IPA

Two Nagano-based companies, Yaso Inc. and Yo-Ho Brewing Company, have collaborated to develop a new craft beer that uses wood from forest thinning operations. The beer is named “Forest Echo IPA”, and will be available in limited quantities.

Yaso Inc. began the upcycled brew to promote the effective use of local forest resources. The company works with regional forestry businesses to transform underutilised materials from forest management, such as branches and leaves from thinned trees, into consumer products. This collaboration with the craft brewer Yo-Ho Brewing aims to raise awareness of forest conservation through a unique product.

Forest Echo IPA incorporates aromatic distilled water, also known as hydrosol, which is a by-product of essential oil extraction. The hydrosol is derived from steam-distilling chips of larch, birch, and spicebush trees harvested during forest thinning in Nagano. To complement the woody aroma, hydrosol from yuzu peel is also added, creating a botanical and refreshing scent that balances the fruity notes of the hops. The use of a lager yeast provides a crisp and clean finish.

A brewing manager at Yo-Ho Brewing commented that the beer a part of the activities to protect the forests of Nagano. There were extensive experimentations to decide which trees to use and what blend would match the hop aroma. He also hoped that it will be an opportunity for people to learn about the richness of Nagano’s nature.