Saison
Vantage Point Brewing Company

been a bit since i had a beer from these guys, they seem to be settling in nicely. this is basic stuff on the surface, overly clean, not rustic at all, american type saison, to be expected i guess, but its also got some subtle smarts to it and more nuance than first appears, they use a blend of yeasts in this i reckon, and as much as it still has that french saison estery vinous thing, its toned back and rounded out by fruitier element in the ferment, which i think softens this and makes it more drinkable, its just light summery beer with flavor and is overall quite well made. pretty clear and maybe a share and a half more amber colored than is common, solid white head from the tap, plenty of bubbles throughout. nose is lightly peppery which is cool, an almost vanilla floral thing to it as well, a toasted coriander warmth, off dry to me, with some traditional hops it seems, a little bitter, balanced but malty too, maltier than most, a white wine ester, tidy. the flavor is nearly the same, subtle raisin toast up front but it lightens and quickens and dries rather fast, light spiciness in the middle, yeast and grain together, a touch less hoppy than it smells at the end. white pepper, clove, earthy grain. solid offering, not the type of saison that excites me, but they executed this well and it has just a bit more to the ferment than many of its peers. these guys have been relatively impressive so far in limited exposure for me...