Farmer's Daughter
Max's Fanno Creek Brew Pub

I nearly passed on this beer under the assumption that it was probably identical to the one brewed under the same name back when Max worked at Tuck’s. I’m glad I gave it a go because Farmer’s Daughter is one of the more credible northwestern saisons I’ve had in years, and the pint I enjoyed at Max’s bore little resemblance to the beer I knew at Tuck’s. It is pale honey color, turbid, and has almost no suds. The taste is jazzy and peppery, with integrated coriander, a touch of orange peel, and that classic farmhouse fragrance. Max’s serves it in their distinctive “bowling pin” glasses.

Farmer’s Daughter is zesty but not overplayed. The style calls for knowing when to let a beer recline, relax, and not overextend itself – a notion lost on Max’s Nit Wit but eloquently expressed here.

Thoughtfully served at "cellar temperature" (though slightly cooler than that in my opinion) in a unique, flared glass, as ccrida noted. Cloudy, pale golden color with a one-finger head that lasted pretty well.

I smelled sweet malts, spice, and a very faint clove-like yeast that reminded me of some German beers I've tried. A little bit of floral hops.

Taste is more intense than the scents! More of the clove and spice come out, with even a little bit of banana mixed in with smooth, sweet malt, finishing with more floral hops. A surprisingly complex beer. Medium, smooth, creamy body filled it out and balanced it well.

This is my first try at a Saison, but I like it a lot. Very drinkable and surprisingly refreshing. A step ahead of the other beers I tried at Max's Fanno Creek Brew Pub.

Served on draft in an unusual stemless tulip glass that said "Danish Mary A Alborg Akvavit", the Farmer's Daughter was hazy pale yellow with a thin white collar leaving moderate lace.

There was some subdued farm-house to the nose, but it was mainly spicy and sweet.

The taste was nice, and more assertively saison then the nose - grainy, peppery and floral, with a bitter, minerally finish. Not as dry or attenuated as would be ideal, a bit malty, but enjoyable.

The mouthfeel was very light and creamy.

This is not the most interesting Saison out there, but it was tasty and inviting.