TOKYO Atsushi Murakami, a 52-year-old researcher with Kirin Brewery has been recognized by a German trade association as one of the world's top experts on hops. "Dr." Murakami, as he is called, is one of only six technical advisers worldwide to the German hops research association.
At the Spring Valley Brewery in Daikanyama, Tokyo, a craft beer called Hoppy New Year Esashi No. 7 made its debut in January. Three weeks later, the first 600 servings had sold out. The beer's flowery aroma draws people into the brewery.
