Transmutation
Adroit Theory Brewing Company

Not dated, but the ABV is different than dated, so hopefully somewhat fresh
Pouts cloudy amber with a huge, rocky khaki head, excellent retention, puffy bands of lace
Banana, soft malt, slight spice, some citrus and tropical fruit aromas
Spice is up front, follows through to the end, soft malt, banana and apples, some citrus and tropical flavors
Light bodied and appropriate carbonation
Not a wordsmith, but this could be better.

 

 

Swirling pour yields two fingers worth f audibly fizzy crisp white head with a rocky top... solid retention... Color is a slightly hazed pale gold... interesting nose highlighted by fresh hops, apricot, cedar and golden raisins... Palate mirrors the nose surprisingly close... Feel is a bit on the light side with a bit of a chalky finish... Interesting brew with a ton of potential that falls a bit short... Overall it's a bit less than the sum of its parts...

 

An above average saison that is very drinkable. Deep butterscotch gold, bright as honey, very clear. Quite effervescent. Light rockiness in the head, a very bright white. Moderate-poor retention. The aroma lacks the complexity although it is quite yeasty with some lemonade bubblicious sweetness. Flavor has more green hop and earthiness to it, but still a pretty standard clove/bubblegum combination. Very light body, moderate carbonation with a not-so-dry finish. Lacks a complexity that I look for in this style...nota beer I would seek out but would certainly drink again.

Poured from a 16 oz. can. Has a bright golden color with a 2 inch head. Smell is mild, some fruits and funk. Taste is of yeast, spices, just a hint of fruits. Feels medium bodied in the mouth and overall it's pretty much an average beer.

I occasionally grab the big stouts from Adroit Theory and tackle those when I have a few friends around to share, or when I take up the challenge of the imposing artwork and big ABV in a pint can. The lower ABV offerings and more traditional styles they are canning, including kolsch and this saison, are growing on me. Transmutation is a very solid take on the style--nice golden color with faint but long-lasting lace, yeasty nose, authentic saison notes in the taste without frills, very refreshing and a tad spritzy which works for it. Will grab more for sure.