Blindman Brewing / Yellow Dog Brewing Co. Hoppy Saison (Terminus Series No. 2) Saison at 6% ABV | 4 IBU (C$3.21 at Willow Park Wine & Spirits, 473 ml, best before 12-Dec-2017, acquired 23-Sep-2017, reviewed 24-Sep-2017)
Appearance: opaque straw with one finger of loose white head diminishing gradually to a thin skim, patchy lacing. (3/5) Aroma: bright citrus, tropical fruit, crackery malt, mild coriander, light funk. (9/10) Taste: moderate-low sweet, mild funk, minimal bitter. (9/10) Medium-light body, moderate carbonation, dry mildly funky slightly spicy finish. (4/5)
Really nice, and exactly what it says on the label: a hoppy saison. Bright citrus leads the way as soon as the can is cracked, and a juicy fruit character stays present throughout, tempered somewhat by the building (but mild) coriander and gentle farmhouse funk. Despite the bright hop aroma, there is minimal bitterness, and the finish is dry without being bitter. The label notes say they hopped it with with some of their favourite hops – Galaxy, Mosiac, and Citra – which, coincidentally enough, are also some of my favourite hops! I also agree completely with the final sentence in the notes: “This gives us an amalgamation of a classic dry saison with a New England-style pale ale/IPA.” and in fact that’s exactly what I thought when pouring it. A stonking good collaboration and highly recommended. (17/20)
8.5/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
