Life Exotic

Life Exotic by Upland Brewing Co. is being evaluated as a Fruit Beer (Category 29A) with the base style as a Saison (Category 25B) according to the 2015 BJCP Guidelines. The aroma is citrus forward with notes of orange pith and bright Meyer lemon. The yeast offers a hint of spice with an offering of peppercorn. The malt profile is buried beneath everything else but plays the supporting role well. The beer is a crystal clear blonde with a small skimpy white head that vanishes quickly. The aroma follows the flavor but with a much greater malt presence. There is a rich bread dough flavor reminiscent of both pilsner malt and wheat. Spiciness from the yeast is accentuated by the dry finish, which also features the citrus notes highlighted in the aroma. The bitterness and body seem a bit stunted for a standard saison, but it falls in line with a saison of table strength. The fruit profile is well incorporated into the beer, perhaps too well in that it becomes somewhat lost in this very complex style. A great summer all-day drinker for those that strive to find something new with every sip.