Orange Saison
Goose Island Beer Co.

 

 

Went to Sheffield's for the Ash-aged Cynic, and came across this brew by happy circumstance. I'd meant to try it at the Goose Island BA gathering in January, but the keg kicked really quickly for some reason. Served in a tulip glass. Apparently this is a sort of proto-Sofie before the barrel-aging process.

A - Dime of white foam that dissipates quickly. Bright opaque orange - looks like a creamsicle. I don't think I've ever seen a beer this orange. Bonus half-point for originality here.

S - Plenty of bretty funk, orange zest, sweet citrus. Great balance between sweet and funky here - even though it's a brett beer it really isn't sour at all. Imagine Sofie without the wine influence and more zest to the orange peel.

T - Terrific mix of funky brett, orange rinds, and candied citrus sweetness. The finish is really interesting as it is simultaneously funky at the front of the palate and sweet ripe orange at the back.

M - Thicker medium body, low carbonation, dry finish, yet somehow clean and refreshing. Pretty much what I want from a saison.

D - The brett gets a little tiring by the end of a glass, so it'd reduce the session possibilities a little bit. Otherwise the mild carbonation and delightful mix of flavors makes this one a winner. Too bad it'll probably never be seen again with Sofie on the market.