Tuesday 5 June 2012

Tasting notes - Saison Dupont


Saisons are the perfect beers to brew in Singapore. The malt bill is simple, and most importantly, the yeast is perfectly happy at our local ambient temperature, unlike many other ale yeasts. It's the perfect drink for hot weather (it was historically made exactly for that - for farmhands to quench their thirst in summer) and I absolutely dig the flavours. When one thinks "saison", their first thought usually jumps to Saison Dupont, considered a classic example of this style.
Poured into a stemmed flute.

Appearance:
Poured a hazy golden colour with just a touch of orange hue. Thick, persistent white head supported by lively effervescence. Almost souffle-like. Good lacing all the way down the glass.

Aroma:
Wild and complex bouquet. There are hints of farmhouse funk, with a combination of earthiness, citrus and fruity phenols.

Taste:
Good complexity which changes from sip to sip as this beer was enjoyed. Initial dominance of citrus and an earthly, herbal taste. A very subdued hop character can be barely made out at the finish, together with a malty undertone. No hot alcohol taste at all, remarkable given that this beer is at 8.5% ABV.

Mouthfeel:
Initial full, silky mouthfeel - which is surprising given this beer's high attenuation. This fades off to a slightly tart and dry finish which is deeply refreshing.

Overall:
A most satisfying experience, and exactly what a saison is all about - beautiful orange hues with a rocky white head, phenolic and fruity complexity with a rustic barnyard overtone, before finishing nice and dry. I am completely inspired to attempt a saison using Dupont's yeast strain!

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