'tis the season

It is, in fact, St. Nicholas' Day in some parts of the world, so some Christmas-y drink seems fitting.  The last Japanese beer I tried was actually made by a Brit founded brewery, but Kiuchi seems to be more "authentic".  Also, ginger.  Not unheard of in Japanese cooking.

Don't lie, you thought that was a reindeer man at first glance, too

It's not too strong smelling, which is almost disappointing.  It's a nice apple-cider brown, also in tune with the season in my estimation.  It has a very gingery flavor, but not with an excessive amount of spice or heat.  It's really like a liquid gingerbread cookie.  The label says to be on the lookout (scentout?) for ginger, citrus and malt in the aroma, but I can't catch any of that.  There is an undertone of citrus in the taste, like a gingerbread cookie with some orange peel decoration or spritz.  It's recommended as an accompaniment to spicy "exotic" foods, which I can see as appetizing, although I'm happy with it by itself right now.  It's a happy drink, quite nice on even a chilly December night.