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Sean Coughlin's picture

iO Saison

iO Saison

Judges Rating: 
90
Aroma: 
22 / 24
Appearance: 
5 / 6
Flavor: 
36 / 40
Mouthfeel: 
9 / 10
Overall Impression: 
18 / 20

Oak and leathery Brettanomyces aromas are dominant up front with notes of light peppercorn, bready malt, and alcohol supporting. Hidden underneath is a floral bouquet that is somewhat reminiscent of potpourri. It pours with a dense rocky light beige head that sits on a rather murky copper beer. The flavor is rather tart considering expectations from the aroma. Oak and Brettanomyces work well together to help accentuate the dry finish.  Hop flavor and bitterness do not get in the way – there’s already enough going on here. The subtle complexities of the aroma are a bit lost in the flavor with the elements of wild yeast and acidity. This is not a classic saison but an interesting take on the style. This beer is enjoyable to revisit and explore with both the nose and palate due to high levels of complexity.