The Bland Thing, That's Its Charm

My Number One in My Heart, Capri Beer

I first met Capri when I was a college freshman. I thought all alcohol tasted bitter, but this beer was surprisingly mild. It was also the first time I voluntarily (?) memorized a beer name, even though I had no interest in alcohol. Since that day, I have tried many beers, but Capri remains my undisputed number one. It is the only beer I have bought more than five times at a convenience store.

Capri was launched in 1995 as a premium beer targeting the trend-sensitive younger generation. Because its bottle and label resemble those of Corona beer, it is often mistaken for an imported beer, but it is a domestic beer made by OB Beer.

It is not easy to find beer in transparent bottles in the beer market. This is because beer in transparent bottles risks flavor changes when exposed to sunlight. Capri was the first transparent bottled beer to appear in the domestic beer market, which was dominated by brown bottles. While brown bottled beers gave off a serious, “adult” vibe, the transparent bottle, showing the clear golden beer inside, exudes a young and free feeling.

The label, shaped like sunlight, also plays a part. The emblem in the shape of the sun, with rays spreading out like waves, evokes the happy and beautiful scenery of the small Italian island named Capri, which shares its name with this beer.

Unlike other beers that usually have about 140 kcal in 350 ml, Capri contains 96 kcal in 330 ml. Its alcohol content is 4.2%. It’s perfect for a light mood boost. True to its easy and unburdened drinking style, the cap can be opened without a bottle opener. You can easily twist it off by gripping it lightly with tissue or a sleeve.

Capri is not a beer with rich foam or strong carbonation. When poured into a glass, it feels more like a soft drink than beer. Its flavor is also not intense, so those who prefer refreshing beers that make you go “Kreu” or beers with strong aroma might find it a bit bland.

But that is exactly Capri’s charm. It has a savory flavor like barley tea mixed with alcohol, a smooth throat feel, and a clean finish without any unnecessary aftertaste! It doesn’t have a strong personality, but that’s why you reach for it more often. It pairs well with chicken, pizza, Korean snacks, soups, dry side dishes, and even fruits, so you don’t have to worry about what to eat with it. You can even enjoy it without any side dishes. It’s a great choice when you want a light drink like coffee or tea or need a clean palate cleanser.

On days when you want to drink beer but don’t want to get drunk, or when you crave something light and refreshing rather than heavy or strongly flavored beer, try Capri. As you savor its unique taste, you will naturally “fall into” it. You might find yourself so captivated by its mild charm that when asked, “Isn’t Capri too bland?” you’ll reply, “That blandness is the charm!”

Photo by Kim Bomi