Sahti

Sahti is a traditional Finnish beer style that boasts a long and storied history, with roots reaching back hundreds of years. This ancient ale is distinct for its farm-made character and the use of local ingredients that impart unique flavors. Traditional Sahtis were brewed in homes or farms using a variety of grains, often including barley, rye, and sometimes oats; however, barley tends to be the dominant grain. They are sometimes filtered through juniper twigs in lieu of hops, which contributes to both flavor and folklore.

Appearance-wise, Sahti tends to have a hazy look owing to its unfiltered nature and may range from gold to dark brown in color depending on the grains used. Its head can vary from moderate to low with not too much retention expected due to the presence of various oils from adjunct grains and juniper if used.

The flavor profile of Sahti is rich and complex. The use of juniper imparts a gin-like aroma coupled with earthy and woody notes. Banana esters are commonly present due to the distinctive yeast strains used, which often create flavors similar to those found in German Weizenbier but much stronger. The grain base provides malty sweetness, while bitterness is typically low as traditional recipes eschew the use of hops for bittering or just use them sparingly. Rye can add spiciness to both aroma and flavor profiles.

Sahtis are akin to other farmhouse ales across Europe where each region's terroir influences the characteristics of the beer – similar in spirit if not taste to Belgian Saison or French Bière de Garde. While Sahti does not enjoy widespread commercial production on the same scale as other more well-known styles, it remains an important piece of brewing heritage that reflects a very specific cultural context – a rustic ale born from necessity, tradition, and local natural resources.