Saison
Description
A refreshing, highly-attenuated, hoppy, and fairly bitter farmhouse ale with a very dry finish. Very carbonated with fruity and spicy yeast character.
Aroma
Complex fruity and spicy aroma with orange citrus, pepper, and floral notes from Belgian yeast. Low to moderate earthy or spicy hop aroma. Pale malt provides light grainy or bready background. Very aromatic.
Appearance
Gold to deep amber, 5-14 SRM. Clear to slightly hazy. White to ivory head with dense, long-lasting retention.
Flavor
Fruity, spicy, and earthy flavors from Belgian yeast. Moderate to high hop bitterness with spicy or earthy hop flavor. Very dry finish. Complex and effervescent with distinctive farmhouse character.
Mouthfeel
Light to medium body with very high carbonation. Spritzy and effervescent. Dry, clean finish. Refreshing.
History
An ancient farmhouse ale tradition from the Wallonia region of Belgium (and northern France), historically brewed in winter for consumption by farm workers during summer harvest. Dupont Saison Dupont (1950s) became the template for the modern revival. Michael Jackson's writings in the 1970s-80s brought international attention to the style.
Commercial Examples
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Saison beer?
- Saison (BJCP 25B) — a refreshing, dry, spicy Belgian farmhouse ale with high carbonation. Style guide and specs.
- What is the ABV of Saison?
- Saison has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5.0-7.0%.
- How bitter is Saison beer?
- Saison measures 20-35 IBU (International Bitterness Units).
- What are some examples of Saison beers?
- Saison Dupont, Brasserie Fantôme Saison, Boulevard Tank 7, Firestone Walker Opal
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