Strange Fellows Brewing Bayard Farmhouse Saison Saison at 5.5% ABV (C$10.04 at Willow Park Wine & Spirits, 750 ml, no packaging date or best before, acquired 12-Oct-2017, reviewed 16-Oct-2017)
Appearance: slightly hazy pale straw with three fingers of loose white head diminishing gradually to a thin skim, spotty lacing. (3/5) Aroma: mild, grainy pale malt, lemon zest, yeast, pome, white pepper. (8/10) Taste: moderate-low sweet, moderate bitter, light funk. (8/10) Palate: medium-light body, lively carbonation, off-dry short lightly funky finish. (5/5)
I totally read that name as “Barnyard” when I first saw it, and accepted it with no hesitation whatsoever – so take that for what it’s worth. I was initially disposed to suggest this was a bit too mild in aroma and flavour, but upon reflection, I don’t know but it’s not the perfect implementation of the style I’ve been whinging about forever: it’s light and dry, with lively carbonation, the ABV is low enough to allow extended sessioning, and the mild(er) flavours prevent it from becoming cloying or overwhelming – a key issue when you consider the traditional five-litre-a-day entitlement. Huh. Well, I guess you know the old saw about being careful what you wish for, right? Really very good, but I can’t help but feeling just slightly let down. (16/20)
8/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
