Saisons are sturdy farmhouse ale that was traditionally brewed in the winter, to be consumed throughout the summer months. Not so long ago it was close to being an endangered style, but over recent years there’s been a massive revival; especially in the US.

This is a very complex style, many are very fruity in the aroma and flavor. Look for earthy yeast tones, with mild to moderate tartness. Lot of spice with a medium bitterness. They tend to be semi-dry with many only having touch of sweetness.

Average alcohol by volume (abv) range: 5.0-8.0%

Top 5 Saison / Farmhouse Ales, in no particular order:

1. Saison Dupont

2. North Coast La Merle

3. Smuttynose Farmhouse Ale

4. Ommegang Hennepin

5. Nøgne Ø

Quick note from the editor:

I am so happy to welcome Deron’s vast beer knowledge to our blog! Deron is a long-time friend of KegWorks, and I believe he puts it best in regards to his true love for the good stuff:

"Just ask Dave or Don about how ridiculous I can get about beer. It’s a real problem, it’s the same with music. And wine. And cooking. I can talk about it all day."

Thanks so much, Deron! Between you and Pete, we’ll never run out of well-recommended brews to try.

Cheers!

TAGS [ SAISON ALE | FARMHOUSE ALE | TOP 5 SAISON ALES | TOP 5 FARMHOUSE ALES | SAISON DUPONT | NORTH COAST LA MERLE | SMUTTYNOSE | OMMEGANG | NØGNE Ø ]