94 Sofie, Goose Island Brewing Co. (IL) 2009. 6.5% ABV (4/09)
Beautiful brilliant golden yellow color with a fine white mousse. Rich aromas of spicy golden raisin and apricot chutney, lavender soap and honeyed citrus peels have a subtle, sour yeast edge and follow through on a round, satiny entry to a dryish medium-full body with tart fruit peel and salty toasted baguette notes on the long, mossy, hop-accented finish. An engaging food beer and screams for artisan peasant food, breads and cheeses.
92 Hennepin Farmhouse Saison Ale, Brewery Ommegang (NY). 7.7% ABV (5/07)
golden color. Lavender bath soap aromas follow through to a fruity medium body of tangerine, toasted wheat bread, honey and spice flavors. Finishes with a mandarin orange, spice custard and talc fade. Interesting, and quite lively and refreshing. Very wine-like.
88 Heavy Seas Red Sky at Night Saison, Clipper City Brewing Co. (MD). 7.5% ABV (4/08)
Copper in color with a fluffy white head. Aromatics consisting of orange peel, melon and hints of citrus zest and bubble gum. Spritzy mouth feel showcasing nice caramel, sweet cream nougat and slightly almond/filbert-like malt character. Finishes dry with hop notes of pine, grass and lightly cheesy notes. A balanced brew to pair with a farmhouse cheese plate or try grilled veggie skewers.
88 Fille Du Fermier, Grizzly Peak Brewing Co. (MI). 6.1% ABV (4/09) %{Brewpub}
Hazy copper color. Aromas of anise seed, spearmint leaf, orange pekoe tea and peach marmalade follow through on a round entry to a dryish medium-to-full body with good integration and a tangy, tangerine, celery seed, nut and toast accent on the finish. A solid food beer.
82 Saison Du Bastone, Bastone Brewery (MI). 5.5% ABV (5/07) %{Brewpub}
Lightly hazy golden amber color. Coriander, cardamom, caramel and prosciutto aromas follow through to a fruity, medium full body of aggressively spicy, white toast, lemon soap and rendered duck fat flavors. Finishes with a malt vinegar and sour milk fade.