Saison
Chama River Brewing Company

I tasted this in a 10 oz. pilsner glass at the brewery/restaurant on June 15, 2007. It was listed on the menu as CRBC Saison, 6.5 % AVV, and it sounds like it may have been a different beer than the previous reviewer had in 2004. Mine was clear light golden with a thin white head that left a spidery lace up the glass. The smell was very subtle - light malt with a hint of honey. The taste was much more flavorful than I expected based on the smell. It was nice and malty with a light sour yeast initial flavor and had a hint of spice. The aftertaste was similar and medium lived. The beer was light to medium bodied with a nice dry finish. It is a smooth and refreshing, very drinkable summer bear that is surprisingly flavorful. I would definitely recommend it if you like this style.

Sampled on draft at the main Albuquerque location.

Appearance: Deep copper color, slightly darker than the copper bar, with a thin head that fades quickly. Light lacing around the glass throughout the sampling.

Smell: Deep and rich Belgian and caramel malt with hints of spices. The spices were subtle with aromas of clove, hints white pepper, and whiffs of other scents I could not discern.

Taste: Sweet, Belgian malt. Light caramel flavors, followed by subtle spices. When the food arrived the beer complemented the food and the spices seemed to come out more. Finishes with a slight bitterness, very good with food.

Mouthfeel: Starts sticky and finishes a little dry.

Drinkability: Very good session beer, and as most Saisons great with food.