This is the Kirin Hyōketsu Mottainai Yamagata Obanazawa Watermelon, featuring 0.2% juice from Obanazawa watermelon produced in Yamagata Prefecture using fruit that would otherwise have been discarded under the brand’s “Mottainai” upcycling initiative. It contained 4% alcohol.
The beverage presented clear and colourless with light carbonation visible through the body. Aroma opened with a mellow and natural sweet watermelon profile without overt confectionery character.
Initial contact delivered an exceptionally smooth and restrained watermelon sweetness reminiscent of fresh watermelon flesh rather than artificial syrup. The flavour initially bordered on thinness due to its softness and low intensity, though this was quickly moderated by gentle carbonation that introduced light lift and structure across the palate.
Through the mid-palate, the soft bubbles burst gradually on the tongue, allowing the watermelon profile to broaden and brighten. The flavour shifted from mellow sweetness towards a fresher and juicier expression reminiscent of the ripe centre portion of a watermelon. Carbonation remained controlled throughout, providing enough movement to prevent the beverage from feeling flat while preserving the delicate fruit profile. The alcohol presence stayed highly restrained, contributing mainly to the overall lightness and dryness of the structure without introducing noticeable bitterness, harshness, or alcoholic burn.
Towards the finish, the watermelon developed a subtle juicy acidity that sharpened the final stages of the sip and reinforced the impression of fresh fruit. As the carbonation lifted away, the beverage resolved into a notably clean finish with minimal residual sweetness or tannic dryness. Aftertaste carried faint lingering watermelon sweetness alongside light mineral crispness.
Overall, a fruit chūhai with a layered flavour trajectory and highly integrated carbonation structure, resulting in a delicate but convincing fresh watermelon profile balanced by restrained sweetness and clean effervescence.
This Kirin Hyōketsu Mottainai Yamagata Obanazawa Watermelon contained 500 mL. It was produced in Japan and purchased in Sydney, Australia in 2026.