This copper-hued Saison offers a refreshing and complex aromatic profile led by the distinctive herbal warmth of cardamom. Built on a base of Pale malt and wheat with oats for texture, the grist is deepened by Caramunich and Melanoidin malts, providing a supportive, lightly toasted backbone. Fermentation with Belle Saison yeast yields high fruitiness and spicy esters, complemented by the earthy, floral notes of East Kent Golding hops. Styrian Golding provides a balanced bitterness that offsets a moderate acidity. The result is a vibrant, highly attenuated ale with a remarkably dry finish and lingering impressions of spice and pome fruit.
Appearance.Luminous copper color (SRM 15.5) with a slight, natural haze from the addition of oats and wheat. It supports a dense, long-lasting, rocky ivory head that leaves persistent Belgian lacing on the glass.
Aroma.High intensity aromatic profile dominated by the pungent, herbal, and slightly resinous spice of cardamom. Significant fruity esters suggestive of orange zest and pear are prominent, alongside moderate earthy and floral hop character. The malt provides a light toasted grain and subtle honey-like note, while a faint, clean alcohol warmth is detectable.
Taste.Initial impression is a burst of spicy cardamom and peppery phenols balanced against moderate citrusy fruitiness. The malt flavor is soft and grainy with a hint of toasted biscuit. Hop flavor is low, contributing subtle earthy notes. Bitterness is moderate and clean, working alongside a refreshing, light acidity to cut through the spice. The finish is remarkably dry and crisp with a lingering spicy aftertaste.
Mouthfeel.Medium body with a smooth, slightly creamy texture provided by the oats and wheat. Carbonation is moderately high, lending an effervescent and refreshing quality. A light, well-integrated alcohol warmth is present, without any harshness or astringency.