Saison Meer: Buckwheat and Chardonnay Barrel
Afterthought Brewing Company

 

Admitted afterthought fanboy, but people, you got to try this one! Bubbly golden pour with a ring of white foam. Buckwheat makes itself know in a vibrant way in the smell. Chardonnay is underlying, with the vinous elements and oak propping up the wheat, barnyard funk, lemon, lime, pear and another layer of funk, this one musky. After such an enticing nose I was pumped up for the taste, and it did not disappoint, with the aromas from the smell coming to life in a delicate and nuanced way. Nothing overpowered each other. The funk really stands out in some sips, the wine in others. Some sour oak pucker, some acidity, some chewy funk, sometimes thinner and dry like white wine. Overall a vibrant and elevated beer.

I'm glad this brewery isn't hyped to the max right now because I can enjoy their beer without any fuss. This beer is seriously as good as any of the heavy hitters in the states. Hill Farmstead, Side Project, Sainte Adarius. Yep I said it. It's that good. Not overly acidic and full of funk. The funk is what separates it from all of the other wild ale/saison makers in the states that only seem to go for the mouth pucker in their beers. I loved this beer. Pretty much perfect for the style.