Le Saison
Dubina Brewing

Poured a cloudy light brown body that appears a very deep gold when held to light with a thin ring of white lace, but no real head. Overall impression of appearance is of a very dark saison, at the extreme end of the style. The lack of head may be in part due to the glass being from a growler, and it is not a major demerit. Scents of abundant white pepper, very phenolic with lighter aromas of clove and fruity esters imparting medium-light notes of apricot and bright citrus and orange peel. There is also a low spicy alcohol and spicy hop character and medium-light notes of toasted malt, typical to a darker saison such as this example. Overall impression of aroma is of a very nice saison. It is a spicier, darker version of this very variable style, with a nice fruit presence at a moderate level serving to balance. A very good saison. Flavor begins lightly sweet, yet phenolic, with notes of white pepper balanced by medium-light bright citrus and a light toasted malt character. Middle gains a bit in dryness, still balanced towards the phenolic flavors with light orange flesh still present as well, along with light notes of toasted malt. Finish is dry, again, dominated by white pepper phenolics, but with ester-derived notes of lemon zest, orange zest and light orange flesh, spicy and herbal hops are also present at light levels. Malt is medium-light and toasted. Aftertaste is herbal hops and white pepper with light lemon zest. There is a light, rustic earthiness throughout that compliments the other flavors. Overall impression of flavor is of a very good darker saison that is very phenolic, balanced with fruity and malty flavors to create an excellent, rustic whole. Mouthfeel is medium-light bodied with effervescent carbonation and a drying feel. Overall impression of mouthfeel is of a very good saison. Overall this is a fantastic darker saison. It is spicy and fruity in aroma and flavor with a nice malt presence as well as am excellent mouthfeel complimenting the flavors. Like a true farmhouse ale it is also rustic and unique. A gem.