Beers in this category are gold to light amber in color. Often bottle-conditioned, with some yeast character and high carbonation. Belgian-style saison may have Brettanomyces or lactic character, and fruity, horsey, goaty and/or leather-like aromas and flavors. Specialty ingredients, including spices, may contribute a unique and signature character. Commonly called “farmhouse ales” and originating as summertime beers in Belgium, these are not just warm-weather treats. U.S. craft brewers brew them year-round and have taken to adding a variety of additional ingredients.
Belgian-Style Saison
Category: Belgian Styles
Food Pairings
- Seafood (Mussels)
- Brie
- Lemon Ginger Sorbet
Commercial Examples
- Saison, Funkwerks
- Red Barn, The Lost Abbey
- Hennepin, Brewery Ommegang
Appearance
Color
Straw to Light Amber
Clarity
Slight Haze
Carbonation (Visual)
Fast Rising Bubbles
Flavor/Aroma
Alcohol
Mild to Noticeable
Hop
Hop aroma is low to medium. Hop bitterness is medium to medium-high
Malt
Malt flavor is low but provides foundation for the overall balance
Esters
Fruit (Orange, Lemon)
Phenols
Pepper
Fermentation By-Products
A small amount of sour or acidic flavor is acceptable when in balance with other components. These beers are often bottle-conditioned, with some yeast character and high carbonation
Sensations
Body
Soft
Carbonation
High
Finish Length
Short to Medium
Attenuation
High
Ingredients
Hops
Noble, Styrian, East Kent Goldings
Malt
Pilsner, Munich, Malted Wheat
Water
High sulfate content
Yeast
Ale, Brettanomyces possible
