Saison: The Complex and Flavorful Belgian Beer Style

Saison is a standard-bearer in terms of the Belgian beer style, and it's one of the most popular and flavorful styles that can be found widely around the world. This mildly spicy brew features a wide range of flavors and aromas due to its engaging Belgian yeast character.

October 21, 2021

By: Chris Guest

Story Revised:

07/05/2024

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Beer Education

Beer Styles

In the ever-evolving world of craft beer, few styles possess the storied heritage and nuanced complexity of Saison. Originating from the rustic farmhouses of Wallonia in Southern Belgium, this unique brew has transcended its humble beginnings to become a beloved staple among beer connoisseurs worldwide. Yet, despite its growing popularity, the Saison remains one of the most enigmatic and misunderstood styles in the beer pantheon.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn all about the fascinating world of Saison: its rich history, the style's defining characteristics and unique attributes and its flavor and aroma profile, along with the essential ingredients and brewing process for making this unusual and enticing beer style. You'll also find insights on the best serving techniques and ideal food pairings for Saisons. Finally, we'll highlight top brands that are renowned for crafting this classic beer style.

The History of Saison

Saison is a farmhouse ale known for its refreshing quality and versatility, which makes it a widely popular style among craft brewers and beer enthusiasts. Saisons are typically highly carbonated and feature a lively, effervescent mouthfeel.

The history of Saison beer is rooted in the agrarian traditions of Wallonia, the French-speaking region of Belgium. Originating in the 18th century, Saison was initially brewed by farmers during the cooler months of winter and early spring. The primary purpose of this seasonal brew was to provide a refreshing and sustaining beverage for farm workers, known as "saisonniers," during the peak of summer's agricultural labor.

These farmhouse ales were crafted with practical considerations in mind. Utilizing local ingredients such as malted barley, wheat and a variety of hops, farmers brewed with whatever was on hand. The beer was often conditioned in barrels, where it underwent secondary fermentation, contributing to its signature effervescence and complex flavor profile.

Traditionally, Saisons were relatively low in alcohol, around 3-4% ABV, to ensure that workers could drink them throughout the day without significant inebriation.

Saison Beer Characteristics

Saisons are known for their high attenuation, dry finish and their delightful flavor and aroma of citrus fruits (lemon, orange) and a slightly spicy, floral and earthy fruity hop character. The most notable characteristic of the Saison style is its dry finish due to extremely high attenuation – a Saison should never finish sweet.

Flavor-wise, Saisons are often striking thanks to their prominent Belgian yeast character as well as the peppery spice character from the hops. The use of wild and mixed fermentation, including spontaneous fermentation by wild yeast and bacteria present in the farm environment, imparts distinctive fruity and sometimes slightly tart characteristics to the beer.

Farmhouse Ale vs Saison

Farmhouse Ale and Saison are terms that are often used interchangeably, but they do have distinct characteristics and historical contexts that differentiate them.

Farmhouse ales refer to a broad category of rustic, artisanal beers traditionally brewed on farms in rural Europe, especially in Belgium and France. The category encompasses a wide range of beer styles, including Saisons, Bière De Garde and other regional specialties. Each style reflects the unique brewing practices, ingredients and environmental conditions of its place of origin.

As stated earlier, Saison is a specific style of farmhouse ale that originated in Wallonia, the French-speaking region of Belgium. The name "Saison" means "season" in French, reflecting its seasonal brewing origins.

Key Differences

Scope: Farmhouse ale is a broader category encompassing various styles, while Saison is a specific type of farmhouse ale.

Origin: Saisons have a distinct origin in Wallonia, Belgium, whereas farmhouse ales can come from various regions, each with its own brewing traditions.

Flavor Consistency: While both farmhouse ales and Saisons can vary widely, Saisons generally adhere to a more defined flavor profile, emphasizing fruity, spicy and dry characteristics.

In summary, all Saisons are farmhouse ales, but not all farmhouse ales are Saisons. The term "farmhouse ale" captures a diverse range of traditional and modern brews, while "Saison" refers to a particular style with a unique history and set of defining characteristics.

Saison Beer Types

One of the most interesting aspects of this style is that it can range in color from amber to deep copper based on how much-roasted malt is present. Furthermore, the Saison style runs the gamut of alcohol content due to the three separate strata that the beer can be divided into. First is "table strength," which is a low-ABV, highly quaffable Saison with ABV topping out around 5 percent.

Next is the "standard strength" Saison, which is the most common version with an ABV between 5 and 7 percent; most Saisons found around the world will fall into the "standard" category. Last (but definitely not least in terms of ABV) is "super strength" Saison, which is the strongest by far, ascending all the way to 9.5% ABV in its strongest examples.

Saison Beer Style Attributes

SRM (?)
5 – 14 (pale), 15 – 22 (dark)

IBUs (?)
20 – 35

ABV (?)
3.5% – 5.0% (table strength)
5.0% – 7.0% (standard strength)
7.0% – 9.5% (super strength)

Color:
Varies, pale amber to dark copper

Clarity:
Varies, haze is not uncommon in this unfiltered style

Carbonation:
Dense, long-lasting, rocky head from strong effervescence

Alcohol:
Varies, mild to strong

Hops:
Spicy hop character

Malt:
Pilsner, Munich, Malted Wheat

Flavor Profile

The flavor profile of Saison beer is renowned for its intricate and multifaceted nature, distinguished by a harmonious interplay of fruity, spicy and earthy nuances. Let’s explore it in detail:

Fruity Esters: Saison beers often showcase prominent fruity esters, including vibrant citrus notes like lemon and orange, along with hints of apricot and pear. These fruity flavors are typically a result of the fermentation process where yeast transforms sugars into aromatic compounds.
Mild Tartness: Some Saisons exhibit a subtle tartness or tanginess that enhances their overall refreshment and complexity. This tart character can vary depending on the specific yeast strains used and the fermentation conditions employed by brewers.
Earthy and Herbal Notes: Complementing the fruity and spicy elements, Saisons may feature earthy undertones such as subtle hints of hay, grass or even a touch of floral or herbal notes.
Malt Character: Saisons typically possess a light malt profile, with delicate hints of grain or bread that provide a subtle foundation for the more pronounced fruity and spicy flavors.
Bitterness: Saison beers generally exhibit a mild to moderate bitterness from hops, which helps to balance the sweetness of the malt and the complex flavors contributed by the yeast.
Dry Finish: A hallmark of the style, Saisons are known for their dry finish, which enhances their drinkability and refreshment. This dryness accentuates the beer's complex flavors, leaving a crisp and clean sensation on the palate that invites another sip.

This intricate flavor profile makes saison beer a versatile and compelling choice for both casual drinkers seeking refreshment and connoisseurs exploring the depth of flavor in craft beer.

Ingredients Used In Saison

Saison beer is brewed with a variety of ingredients that contribute to its distinctive flavor profile and character. Here is a list of the commonly/locally used ingredients of Saison:

1. Pale Malts: Forming the base of the beer, pale malts provide a light and clean maltiness that supports the complex flavors of Saison without overpowering them.

2. Specialty Malts: Occasionally, brewers may incorporate specialty malts such as Vienna or Munich malts to add depth and complexity to the malt profile, contributing subtle caramel or biscuit notes.

3. Noble Hops: Typically, Saisons are hopped with noble hops like Saaz, Tettnang, or Styrian Goldings. These hops impart a mild bitterness and delicate floral or herbal aromas that complement the beer's fruity and spicy yeast characteristics.

4. Yeast: The yeast strain used in Saison brewing is crucial to defining its flavor profile. Traditionally, Saison yeasts are known for their ability to produce fruity esters (such as citrus and stone fruits) and spicy phenols (like pepper and clove) during fermentation. Some brewers may use Belgian or French traditional Saison yeast strains known for their specific flavor contributions.

6. Water: The mineral content and quality of water used in brewing can influence the final taste of the Saison. Soft water is often preferred to allow the yeast and hop flavors to shine through.

7. Sugar: In traditional recipes, Saisons may include sugar additions during brewing. This not only increases alcohol content but also enhances the dryness and sparkle characteristic of the style.

By carefully selecting and combining these ingredients, brewers craft Saisons that range from traditional interpretations to innovative variations, each offering a unique expression of this beloved farmhouse ale style.

How Saison Is Brewed

Saison brewing involves a process that balances tradition with modern techniques, and the focus is always on achieving the beer style's characteristic complexity and refreshment:

1. Mashing

The Saison brewing process begins with mashing, where pale malts and, optionally, specialty malts are mixed with hot water to convert starches into fermentable sugars. This produces a sweet liquid known as wort.

2. Boiling and Hopping

The wort is then boiled, and hops are added. Saisons typically use noble hops like Saaz or Styrian Goldings for their mild bitterness and floral/herbal aromas. The boiling process extracts hop oils and flavors while sterilizing the wort.

3. Cooling and Fermentation

After boiling, the wort is rapidly cooled and transferred to a fermenter. Saison yeast strains, often Belgian or French in origin, are then added. These yeasts thrive at warmer temperatures (typically 65-75°F / 18-24°C) and ferment vigorously to produce fruity esters and spicy phenols characteristic of Saisons.

4. Conditioning

Fermentation may take place in open vessels or closed fermenters, depending on the desired outcome. During fermentation, some Saisons undergo secondary fermentation, which allows for further development of flavors and natural carbonation.

5. Maturation

Post-fermentation, Saisons are typically aged for several weeks to months to allow flavors to meld and mature. This maturation period enhances the complexity and smoothness of this classic beer style.

6. Carbonation and Packaging

Finally, Saisons are carbonated either naturally through bottle conditioning (adding a small amount of sugar and yeast before sealing in bottles) or force carbonation in kegs. They are then packaged and ready for distribution and consumption.

How to Serve and Sample Saison

Saisons are meant to be poured into a standard tulip glass to help accentuate the redolent spicy and citrusy aromas before beginning to sip.

Due to the high carbonation of the style, Saisons must be poured very slowly and at an angle, with the bottle inside of the glass. Be sure to rinse the glass and wipe clean before pouring.

Proper Glass (?): Tulip
Serving Temperature: 45-55 °F

Follow these tips for a perfect pour:

#1. While 45 degrees is commonly quoted as the correct angle to hold your glass when pouring this style, an even more acute angle (sometimes nearly horizontal) serves this style better.

#2. Make sure that the neck of the bottle is inside of the glass, and then begin pouring slowly. Pouring too quickly will result in a massive amount of foam due to the style's high carbonation.

#3. Pull the bottle out once you've filled the glass up two-thirds of the way, then begin pouring again but faster this time to create a nice head of foam.

#4 (optional based on personal taste). The yeast (which provides some of this style's piquant flavor) will be at the bottom of the bottle, so before finishing the pour, leave a finger's worth of beer in the bottle, swirl it around to agitate the yeast, and then complete the pour to ensure you get that precious resource into your glass.

#5. Sit back and enjoy!

Saison Food Pairings

Saisons are an impressively versatile beer when pairing with food.

First off, this style serves as an excellent accompaniment to brunch (if you're in the mood for a late-morning, early-afternoon beer pick-me-up). Rich cheese curds and over-easy eggs with avocado toast provide a rich, buttery backdrop for the peppery and slightly citrusy beer to cut right through.

Perhaps the best pairing for this style is with a tender, roasted chicken. The crisp, dry, peppery Saison will once again cut through the rich, fatty nature of the chicken and leave you salivating for more. A hearty sausage pizza also provides that rich, fatty base for the peppery, complex Saison style.

Lastly, a strong Pad Thai goes beautifully with this style, as the complex and wide range of flavors found within this peanut-topped dish contrast with the dry and snappy character of a Saison.

Saison Paired with Pizza

Watch This Great Video About Saison

Saison Best Brands

These well-known and widely available brands are the highest-rated Saisons that have been evaluated in The Beer Connoisseur's Official Review.

We recommend seeking out these exemplars of the Saison style.

Sorachi Ace
Brooklyn Brewery
Rated 98 (World Class)

Saison DuPont
Brasserie DuPont
Rated 96 (World Class)

Classic Saison
Blackberry Farm Brewery
Rated 96 (World Class)

Hennepin
Brewery Ommegang
Rated 96 (World Class)

Judging Criteria for Saison

The Beer Connoisseur’s Official Review is conducted in a single-blind format that adheres to the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP).

The BJCP criteria for reviewing Saison is as follows.

Style Family - Strong Belgian Ale, Category 25

Category 25A. Belgian Blond Ale
Category 25B. Saison
Category 25C. Belgian Golden Strong Ale

Download the BJCP 2015 Style Guidelines (PDF) for a full description of this style.

11 Popular Saison Breweries To Explore

There are numerous brewers across the globe that produce Saison, so it shouldn't be too difficult to find this beer style at your local retail store or on tap at your favorite brewery.

Here are a few examples of popular Saison brands:

1. Hill Farmstead Brewery

Hill Farmstead Brewery, located in Greensboro Bend, Vermont, is consistently ranked among the world's top craft breweries. Founded by Shaun Hill in 2010, it specializes in small-batch, farmhouse-style ales that reflect a deep commitment to quality and local ingredients. Known for its meticulous attention to detail, Hill Farmstead produces a variety of beers, from hop-forward IPAs like Edward to complex Saisons like Florence as well as barrel-aged stouts and other intensely flavorful brews.

The brewery's rustic setting and sustainable practices further enhance its appeal, drawing beer enthusiasts to its scenic location in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. Hill Farmstead's dedication to brewing excellence has earned it widespread acclaim and a devoted following.

Untappd Rating: ⭐4.32
Total Ratings: 1,362,461
Number of Beers Rated: 1552
Address: 403 Hill Rd, Greensboro Bend, VT 05842
Operation Hours: 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: Hill Farmstead Brewery

2. The Ale Apothecary

The Ale Apothecary, based in Bend, Oregon, is acclaimed for its Sahalie, a well-crafted Saison aged in oak barrels, known for its complex flavors and traditional brewing techniques. Founded by Paul Arney, the brewery specializes in crafting small-batch, barrel-aged ales using a unique process that blends Old World brewing techniques with innovative flavors.

Each beer is brewed and fermented in open-air vessels, allowing wild yeasts and bacteria to impart complex and distinctive flavors. The Ale Apothecary's lineup includes a variety of experimental and seasonal ales, each reflecting a deep reverence for craftsmanship and quality. Their beers are highly sought after among aficionados for their complexity and character.

Untappd Rating: ⭐4.24
Total Ratings: 78,949
Number of Beers Rated: 361
Address: 30 SW Century Dr #140, Bend, OR 97702
Operation Hours: 2:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Website: The Ale Apothecary

3. Homage Brewing

Homage Brewing, established in Pomona, California in 2016, epitomizes the artistry of small-batch brewing with a focus on barrel-aged and mixed-fermentation beers. Founder Matt Garcia combines traditional methods with innovative techniques to craft a diverse array of beers that includes their acclaimed Saisons.

Homage's Saisons are distinguished by their use of locally sourced ingredients and meticulous barrel aging, which impart nuanced flavors and a distinctive character. Notably, "Saison Homage" stands out, with its bright citrus zest notes that complement its spicy and fruity yeast profile. The brewery's commitment to quality and creativity has garnered a loyal following, making Homage Brewing a destination for beer enthusiasts seeking unique and flavorful brews in an intimate and welcoming setting.

Untappd Rating: ⭐4.12
Total Ratings: 46,695
Number of Beers Rated: 478
Address: 1219 N Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Operation Hours: 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Website: Homage Brewing

4. Burial Beer Co.

Burial Beer Co., founded in 2013 in Asheville, North Carolina, has quickly made a name for itself with a blend of creativity and reverence for tradition in brewing. Specializing in both innovative and classic styles, Burial is known for its diverse lineup including IPAs, stouts and, notably, its Saisons.

Burial's Saisons uniquely blend traditional brewing processes with modern flavors. The brewery draws inspiration from local ingredients and Asheville's vibrant beer scene to create a unique atmosphere in their taproom and a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts.

Untappd Rating: ⭐4.11
Total Ratings: 1,257,508
Number of Beers Rated: 1581
Address: 40 Collier Ave Asheville, NC 28801
Operation Hours: 12:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Website: Burial Beer Co.

5. The Lost Abbey

The Lost Abbey, founded in 2006 in San Marcos, California, is a renowned craft brewery specializing in Belgian-inspired ales and barrel-aged beers. Known for its meticulous brewing techniques and creative flair, The Lost Abbey produces a wide array of complex and flavorful beers, such as its acclaimed Carnevale (a Belgian style Saison), Lost and Found Abbey Ale and the barrel-aged Angel’s Share.

The brewery's dedication to quality and innovation has earned it numerous awards and a loyal following among beer enthusiasts. The Lost Abbey also hosts a vibrant taproom, where visitors can experience its unique brews in a welcoming and rustic setting. Additionally, it offers a plethora of food items that pair fantastically with its signature beer styles.

Untappd Rating: ⭐4.03
Total Ratings: 667,991
Number of Beers Rated: 163
Address: 155 Mata Way, Suite 104, San Marcos, CA 92069
Operation Hours: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Website: The Lost Abbey

6. Jester King Brewery

Jester King Brewery, situated in Austin, Texas, is renowned for its dedication to farmhouse ales and spontaneous fermentation. Founded in 2010, the brewery embraces traditional brewing methods, using locally grown grains, native yeast and bacteria to create distinctive beers that reflect their Texas Hill Country terroir.

Among their impressive lineup of farmhouse ales, Jester King's "Le Petit Prince" is notable as a refreshing and approachable Saison. This beer exemplifies their commitment to balance and complexity as it features a dry, crisp finish and subtle fruity esters. Beyond Saisons, Jester King is celebrated for its diverse range of wild ales, barrel-aged beers and collaborations with local producers, offering a unique taste of Texas craft brewing in a picturesque Hill Country setting.

Untappd Rating: ⭐4.02
Total Ratings: 841,709
Number of Beers Rated: 537
Address: 13187 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin, TX 78736
Operation Hours: 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Website: Jester King Brewery

7. Fonta Flora Brewery

Fonta Flora Brewery, located in Morganton, North Carolina, is celebrated for its focus on locally sourced ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. Founded in 2013, the brewery embraces a farm-to-pint philosophy, incorporating foraged botanicals, fruits and grains into their beers. Fonta Flora's diverse lineup includes a variety of styles, with a particular emphasis on farmhouse ales and Saisons.

Notable among their offerings is "Beets, Rhymes & Life," a Saison brewed with beets and aged in oak barrels, showcasing their commitment to creative experimentation while honoring traditional brewing methods. The brewery's bucolic taproom and commitment to sustainability add to its appeal among beer aficionados.

Untappd Rating: ⭐3.96
Total Ratings: 277,101
Number of Beers Rated: 582
Address: 317 N Green St, Morganton, NC 28655
Operation Hours: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Website: Fonta Flora Brewery

8. Oxbow Brewing Company

Oxbow Brewing Company, founded in 2011 in Newcastle, Maine, has garnered acclaim for its commitment to traditional brewing techniques. Embracing the spirit of Belgian and French farmhouse brewing, Oxbow focuses on producing nuanced and expressive beers that highlight local ingredients and natural fermentation processes.

Saison Dell'Aragosta is brewed with Maine lobster shell that showcases the brewery’s innovative approach to incorporating regional flavors. Apart from Saisons, Oxbow produces a diverse range of beers including barrel-aged ales, IPAs and wild ales, each reflecting a dedication to quality and craftsmanship.

Untappd Rating: ⭐3.86
Total Ratings: 282,328
Number of Beers Rated: 171
Address: 274 Jones Woods Rd, Newcastle, ME 04553
Operation Hours: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Website: Oxbow Brewing Company

9. Deschutes Brewery

Deschutes Brewery, established in 1988 in Bend, Oregon, is one of the most celebrated craft breweries in the United States. Known for its pioneering spirit and commitment to quality, Deschutes offers a diverse range of beers, including the iconic Black Butte Porter and the popular Fresh Squeezed IPA. The brewery’s Blue Butterfly Dry-Hopped Saison stands out as a popular brew that's celebrated for its refreshing and aromatic profile.

The brewery emphasizes sustainability by using locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices. Deschutes also boasts a lively pub in Bend, serving innovative pub fare alongside its renowned beers. With a focus on community engagement and brewing excellence, Deschutes Brewery continues to be a leader in the craft beer industry, earning accolades and a loyal fanbase.

Untappd Rating: ⭐3.80
Total Ratings: 3,323,843
Number of Beers Rated: 1552
Address: 901 SW Simpson Ave. Bend, Oregon 97702, US
Operation Hours: 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Website: Deschutes Brewery

10. Wallenpaupack Brewing Co.

Wallenpaupack Brewing Co., established in 2017 in Hawley, Pennsylvania, is a craft brewery inspired by the scenic beauty of Lake Wallenpaupack. The brewery offers a diverse selection of handcrafted beers, including lagers, IPAs, stouts and seasonal specialties. Notably, the brewery's Talkback Saison is an exceptional brew within the style, and it boasts a harmonious blend of fruity and spicy notes with a refreshing finish.

Known for its commitment to quality and local ingredients, Wallenpaupack Brewing Co. has quickly become a staple in the Pennsylvania craft beer scene. The brewery features a spacious taproom and beer garden, where visitors can enjoy their brews alongside a menu of locally sourced food. Wallenpaupack Brewing Co. also emphasizes community engagement, hosting events and supporting local causes.

Untappd Rating: ⭐3.75
Total Ratings: 77,853
Number of Beers Rated: 356
Address: 73 Welwood Ave, Hawley, PA 18428, US
Operation Hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Website: Wallenpaupack Brewing Co.

11. Two Roads Brewing Co.

Two Roads Brewing Co., founded in 2012 in Stratford, Connecticut, is known for its innovative and diverse craft beer offerings. Housed in a historic factory building, the brewery blends traditional brewing techniques with creative approaches to produce a wide range of styles, from classic lagers to experimental ales.

Their Worker's Comp Farmhouse Ale exemplifies the Saison style with its complex blend of fruity esters, spicy phenols and a dry finish, embodying the rustic charm of traditional farmhouse ales. Two Roads is committed to quality and sustainability, which has helped the brewery earn a reputation for excellence in the craft beer community.

Untappd Rating: ⭐3.72
Total Ratings: 1,051,339
Number of Beers Rated: 372
Address: 1700 Stratford Ave, Stratford, CT 06615
Operation Hours: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Website: Two Road Brewing Co.

Flavorful and Delightful: Our Take on the Saison Beer Style

While canned cocktails, hard seltzers and flavored malt beverages continue to gain shelf space, it's important to remember that Saison is a historically important style that also delivers tremendous flavor and complexity to anyone who decides to crack open a bottle or can of the style.

Even within the beer world, it's becoming more and more difficult to find this wondrous brew as lagers and hazy IPAs continue to homogenize the industry. Just remember, Saisons can be found in three distinct strengths, so they can be tailored to post-exercise sipping, a wonderful complement to a delicious dinner or as a late-night, high-ABV sipper among friends.

Versatile, flavorful and delightful, let's hope there's always room in your fridge for a Saison.

The Saison Beer Style Is Well Worth Your Time

Saison holds a cherished place in the world of craft beer for its rich history, versatile flavor profile and artisanal brewing traditions. It is a style that is renowned for having refreshing and complex characteristics such as fruity esters, spicy phenols and a dry finish -- atributes that make Saisons appealing to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

Its origins are rooted in Belgian farmhouse brewing traditions, which have inspired modern brewers globally to innovate while respecting tradition when crafting this style. Whether enjoyed on a summer day or paired with gourmet cuisine, Saisons will continue to captivate with its balance of old-world charm and contemporary creativity.

Photos Courtesy Respective Breweries

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