Saison D'Epeautre
Brewery Ardennes

Interesting. The label says, “Brewed with Spelt,” right here under a watercolor rendering of Barley, one of their French Bulldogs. Just imagine my surprise when the transition of “D’Epeaute” popped up.

LOOK AT THIS! Would you just look at this? Now THAT’S a classic Farmhouse Saison! Pardon me, “Belgian STYLE Farmhouse Ale.” The head was a little too brief, at less than five minutes, retreating from that billowing cumulus cloud to a thick ring after leaving chunky patches of lace on a Pretentious Glass Co. Pub Tulip. Tiny grains of yeast begin to collect below as the dark gold beer slowly, yet never quite clears. Medium sized orbs of carbonation burst forth at regular intervals, sometimes forming transient columns, other times rouge interlopers.

The aroma, while initially dense with earthyness, quickly changes gear to a mild funkyness that is just short of the common horse blanket. A fair share of fermenting apple is corralled by the zing of lime. Herbal specters build up to prominent basil and light mint. After reaching ambient temperature, floral honey becomes unmistakable, though not center stage.

The nose is, well, re-presented in the flavor, with mild sweet/sour/bitterness taking turns in equal proportions, albeit alternating in duration and combination. The herbal and earthy quality cannot be under stated nor can the welcoming comfort they provide. The apple quickly fades leaving the brightness of lemon/lime as a contrast. The finish is modest and lingering, with a dry grassy touch.

The medium body has a texture similar to rough cotton linen. Alcohol is spot on expectation, while carbonation scours on entry. Warmth brings a mild metallic note.

This beer is just right for a cool Sunday afternoon in late July. The clouds are providing an unbroken shade over the sun, while the bugs chatter away, and the birds chirp out melodies.