Spicebush Saison
Scratch Brewing Company

not sure if this is distinct from what they are now calling rye spicebush saison or not, they seem to have made a fair few beers with this ingredient, someone correct me if this is the wrong listing for what is being served there as rye spicebush saison. this is a very cool brew, and while i have decided that i am not in love with the scratch house wild yeast culture, i think it works really well in this particular brew. the rye is a little more delicate here than i expected, softly earthy and dry, but seemingly covered up by the spicebush, which i do not know in nature, but whose presence is obvious here. this has some really interesting botanical character with notes of anise and black tea, clove, allspice, cedar wood, sarsaparilla, and even lime, fragrant and flavorful without being forced, overdone, or perfumey, really interesting complexion here, and with the yeast there is just a ton going on here. the malt bill seems somewhat simple even with the rye, a little delicate for all the flavor coming from the spicebush, but a great autumnal richness overall, lingering long through the finish, light peppermint, black pepper, and even like a cumin thing going on. really unique beer, these foraged brews are what i love so much about these guys, and this was a treat. the yeast is a bit weird, a little acidic and a little funky, but here it works.

Poured a cloudy golden color into a snifter. Very crisp carbonation and a clean taste of pepper and some citrus. No detectable sweetness. Of the set of spices one would expect to find in a Saison, they found another set. Not unenjoyable, just different. Moderate head and lacing.