Are you a beer enthusiast looking for a unique and refreshing drinking experience? Look no further than Saison beer brands. Saison, also known as farmhouse ale, originated in southern Belgium and is characterized by its rustic, open-to-interpretation style. This beer style is often brewed with wild, top-fermenting yeast and local ingredients, resulting in a diverse range of flavours and aromas.
Saison Dupont, brewed by Brasserie Dupont, is a classic beer with a honey-golden body and is often regarded as one of the best Saison beer brands around the world. However, there are many other Saison beer brands out there that are worth exploring. From clean and funky to tart and complex, there is a Saison beer brand for every taste preference. In this article, we will explore some of the best Saison beer brands to try in 2024 and what makes them unique.
Key Takeaways
- Saison beer brands offer a unique and refreshing drinking experience that is open to interpretation.
- Saison Dupont is a classic beer and is often regarded as one of the best Saison beer brands in the world.
- There are many other Saison beer brands worth exploring, each with their own unique flavour and aroma profile.
Exploring Saison Beer Brands
If you’re looking for a refreshing beer with a unique taste and a rich history, then Saison beer is the perfect choice for you. Saison, also known as farmhouse ale, is a type of beer that originated in Wallonia, Belgium, and was traditionally brewed by farmers during the winter months to be consumed by seasonal workers during the summer harvest.
Classic Saisons
When it comes to classic Saison beer brands, Saison Dupont by Brasserie Dupont is the one that stands out. It is a Belgian-style Saison that is well-balanced with a dry finish and high carbonation. It has a spicy and herbal aroma with a fruity and floral taste. The beer is brewed using pilsner malt, wheat, and rye, and is fermented with a Belgian yeast strain. Saison Dupont has an alcohol content of 6.5% and an IBU of 30.
American Innovations
In recent years, American craft brewers have taken this classic beer style and added their own unique twists to it. Funkwerks Saison is a great example of an American Saison beer. It is brewed with a combination of ale yeast and wild yeast strains, which gives it a unique funkiness. It has a light and refreshing taste with a hop character that is balanced with spicy and fruity notes. Funkwerks Saison has an alcohol content of 6.8% and an IBU of 20.
Another American Saison that is worth trying is Tank 7 by Boulevard Brewing. This beer is brewed using a combination of malted barley, oats, and wheat, and is fermented with a Belgian yeast strain. It has a cloudy appearance with a spicy and floral aroma. The taste is fruity with a hint of clove and a dry finish. Tank 7 has an alcohol content of 8.5% and an IBU of 38.
If you’re looking for a Saison beer with a unique twist, then Blackberry Farm’s Classic Saison is a great option. This beer is brewed with a combination of malted barley, wheat, and oats, and is fermented with a blend of ale yeast and lactobacillus. It has a light and refreshing taste with a fruity and spicy character. Blackberry Farm’s Classic Saison has an alcohol content of 6.3% and an IBU of 25.
In conclusion, Saison beer is a unique and refreshing beer style that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer classic Belgian-style Saisons or American innovations, there is a Saison beer brand out there for you. So, next time you’re looking for a beer that is both refreshing and full of flavour, be sure to try a Saison beer. Prices for Saison beers can range from £3 to £10 per bottle, depending on the brand and location.
The Saison Experience
If you’re a beer enthusiast looking for a unique and refreshing drinking experience, Saison beer is a must-try. This beer style originated in Belgium and is known for its complex and spicy flavour profile.
Taste and Aroma Profiles
Saison beer is typically dry with a tart and refreshing taste. It has a unique flavour profile that includes spicy and fruity notes, as well as earthy and floral undertones. You can expect to taste hints of citrus, pepper, lemon, orange, and even tropical fruit in some variations. The aroma is equally complex, with spicy and fruity notes dominating.
Serving and Food Pairings
Saison beer is best served in a tulip-shaped glass to enhance its aroma and flavour. It should be served slightly chilled, but not too cold, as this can mute its complex flavour profile. When it comes to food pairings, Saison beer is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s particularly well-suited for fish and barbecue dishes, as its refreshing and tart taste complements the smokiness of grilled meats and the delicate flavour of fish.
Overall, Saison beer is a unique and complex beer style that offers a refreshing drinking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of craft beer, Saison beer is definitely worth trying. Expect to pay around £5-£10 per bottle, depending on the brand and where you buy it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated saison beers to try this year?
If you’re looking for the best saison beers to try this year, you’re in luck! Some of the top-rated saison beers include Saison Dupont, Prairie Artisan Ales Prairie Ale, and Funkwerks Saison. These beers are known for their unique flavours and are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Which breweries offer the best saison beers in the UK?
The UK is home to several breweries that offer fantastic saison beers. Some of the best breweries to check out include Burning Sky Brewery, Partizan Brewing, and Wild Beer Co. These breweries are known for their commitment to quality and innovation, so you’re sure to find something you love.
What unique flavours can I expect from a classic saison beer?
Classic saison beers are known for their unique flavours, which often include notes of pepper, citrus, and spices. You may also detect hints of earthiness and funk, which are characteristic of the yeast used in the brewing process. Overall, a classic saison beer is a complex and refreshing beverage that is perfect for any occasion.
How does a saison differ from a traditional lager?
Saison beers are quite different from traditional lagers in several ways. For one, they are brewed with a different type of yeast, which gives them a distinct flavour profile. Additionally, saison beers are often brewed at higher temperatures, which results in a more complex and nuanced flavour. If you’re looking for something a bit different from your typical lager, a saison beer is definitely worth trying.
Can you recommend any must-try American saison beer brands?
If you’re looking for some fantastic American saison beer brands to try, we recommend checking out Jester King Brewery, Oxbow Brewing Company, and Hill Farmstead Brewery. These breweries are known for their commitment to quality and innovation and are sure to offer some unique and delicious saison beers.
Are there any similar beer styles to saison for those looking to explore?
If you’re interested in exploring similar beer styles to saison, we recommend checking out farmhouse ales and biere de gardes. These beers share many similarities with saison beers and are often brewed with similar ingredients and techniques. Additionally, they offer a unique and complex flavour profile that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.