Style: Saison
Brewery: Brouwerij Het Nest
Origin: Oud-Turnhout (east of Antwerp)
Size: 33cl
Alcohol: 6.5%
Price: 25kr
Systembolaget: 1209
I would say saison is one of the styles of beer that I have tried the least of. It’s not that I dislike them, it’s just there aren’t that many coming to Sweden and the ones that are available always seem to get pushed to the back of the shopping list. It is an important Belgian style though, so I thought I would include one in the tasting. I had tried this one before, so I knew it was rather nice.
It was bright hazy straw in colour with a thick white fluffy head. The aroma was refreshing and complex, with a plethora of aromas such as basil, lemon, gooseberry, blackcurrant leaves, and a hint of salt all discernable. There was a tartness that instantly hit the palate upon sipping, with moss, herbs and honey notes coupled with a growing bitterness that dried the palate. The aftertaste was long-lasting and really stuck to the back of the throat. Medium bodied and with high carbonation, this saison fit the style profile perfectly.
This is a saison with many layers of flavours and character, with a delicate prolonged bitterness. Refreshing and easy to drink, this would be a great beer to pair with some pleasant rustic home cooked chicken. A great start to the tasting!