Saison

Saison is a highly carbonated, fruity and spicy pale ale historically brewed in Wallonia, the French-speaking part of Belgium. This style has its roots in the farmhouses of the past where it was produced for consumption during the active farming season to refresh workers. Each farmhouse would brew its own distinctive version with varying levels of alcohol content based on what ingredients were available, which often resulted in a unique taste for every Saison.

A Saison is generally characterized by its deep golden to amber coloration with a high level of effervescence and often possesses a persistent, lacy head due to it being typically bottle-conditioned. Its cloudiness can vary from being crystal clear to having some degree of haze. The aromatic profile of a Saison usually encompasses a complex range of ingredients including fruits like oranges or apples, and sometimes even more exotic ones depending on the specific yeast strains employed. The flavor is equally diverse: peppery spice notes may play alongside ripe fruitiness while earthy, rustic elements imparted by regional yeasts are also common. Despite this complexity, it remains dry with moderate to high bitterness which ensures that the finish is crisp and refreshing.

The Saison bears resemblance to other Belgian-style farmhouse ales like Bière de Garde but can be distinguished by its stronger emphasis on spice and lower sweetness. It's known for its flexibility in pairing with food and as an enjoyable drink regardless of weather due to its thirst-quenching properties. Over time, modern interpretations have led to variations that include hop-forward versions or those featuring different spices or additional fermentables providing even wider sensory experiences within the style.