Thai Basil Saison
Local Relic

this is an awesome little beer from what appears to be a very creative brewery down in colorado springs. this was in an italian looking bottle at 503w, one of the cooler craft spots down there. apparently it was brewed just for them, for a beer dinner they did a little while back. the food there has an asian flare, so imagine this was perfect at that meal. its clear at first, pale and with a thick creamy inch of white head. the latter stages of the bottle made it cloudy, but still somewhat delicate looking for its strength and style. the nose is amazing, thai basil for sure, more spicy and green and concentrated than genovese basil. there is a ton of bigger almost nutty wheat malt in here, a little sweet in the middle, but its a great platform for the basil. the yeast is funky a little bit, but its not bretty at all. tamer than belgian yeasts on the esters, but definitely with some of those tones to it. french type saison yeast, stone fruit and white wine come to mind. the basil is nicely dosed here, its pungent and distinct, but its not too much. the elements are in tremendous balance. i could see this being amazing with a fried rice or something, or a heavier fish dish. its insane how strong it is, it doesnt even show one little trace of it, despite being one of the stronger versions of saison i have ever had. its dry on the back end even though there is a little wheaty sweet thing going on earlier, and it is carbonated brightly. for what i am told is a pretty new upstart operation, its obvious they have their process dialed in. this beer is professional level for sure, and one of the more unique beers ive had this year. nothing like it out there at all, and i dont think these guys have a tap room, so get into 503w asap and treat yourself to this. i want to hear what others think. i was blown away...