Review - Harpoon Brewery's 100 Barrel Series #14: Saison
"Our Saison is inspired by the classic Wallonian farmhouse ales of the late 1800's. Designed for consumption on the farm by fieldhands, these beers were intended to be crisp, refreshing, and sustaining. Brewed using a combination of Belgian Pale and Vienna malts with some torrefied wheat, the beer is hopped with a combination of Kent and Styrian Goldings, with a delicate addition of pepper and cardamom. Fermented at an unusaully high temperature, the resulting beer is dry, crisp, and complex. Enjoy!
This beer was brewed by Harpoon Quality Control Manager Jaime Schier. Jaime has also brewed one other 100 Barrel Series edition (#2 - Wit Beer)." -- Harpoon Brewery
The Saison is a unique brew, although it does bare resemblance to a hefeweizen with a tangy kick. It pours a light amber color into a hazy body, topped off by a fizzy white head. Fair lacing, with a fully diminishing head. Aroma is of light lemony hops, which reminded us of a hefe. There was also a hint of allspice. Initial taste is moderately sweet, softening to a light sweet finish with a short duration. Hints of ginger in the taste. Light on the mouth, it has a watery texture and lively carbonation, and it's easy to see that this style would be a welcome refreshment on the farm.
Reviewed on October 1, 2006.
| Type: | Belgian-style Saison |
| ABV: | 6.3% |
| Source: | 22 oz. Bottle |
| Score: | 19/30 |
