Summer Saison

Saison | Seasonal | United States

By Graham L. Barron

Judges Rating: 94
Aroma: 23
Appearance: 6
Flavor: 38
Mouthfeel: 9
Overall Impression: 18

When most drinkers think of a saison, they probably imagine a beer that is spicy and phenolic more often than not. However, this beer is more of a tropical take on the style. A vigorous pour yields a frothy white head that dissipates fairly quickly, leaving behind a slightly hazy beer with an orange-amber hue. The initial aroma is one of pilsner malt and corn, light phenols and a slight herbal character. As the beer warms up, tropical fruit and apple esters emerge mixing with a perfumy note. A light, candi sugar-like malt sweetness greets you on the first sip. Tropical fruits like pineapple, guava and mango begin to dominate the flavor profile but a very balanced hop bitterness ties them all together. Carbonation is average for this style leaving the beer feeling medium-light bodied with a slightly sweet finish. The tropical aromas and flavors of this beer make it perfect for enjoying in the summer, either by the pool or at the beach.