History
Saisons, also known as Farmhouse beers, can trace their origins found to the Wallonia region of Belgium, located in the Southwestern part of the country. The Wallonia region is known for farming. In the early to mid 20th century, farmers would hire Saisoners (farm hands) for the summer months to work the land. During the winters, the farm owners would brew beer on the farms called Saison for the summer workers who were each entitled to 5 liters of beer per day. The Saisons, whether modest or strong in alcohol are known for being tart, a little funky, light on the palate, dry, fruity, spicy, complex and very quaffable.
Botanical Saison pays tribute to the rich history of Saisons. As the name implies, this family of beers was born on a farm and was brewed for centuries with whatever was at hand around the homestead. That meant the inclusion of a wide variety of grains like spelt and raw wheat, and also that the brewer may choose to spice her creation with any number of flowers, herbs or spices grown or used on the farm. Springtime ingredients find their way into Summer beers, and so these creations would enjoyed on long days in the warm summer months. And so, once again, we pay tribute to the storied past of the mighty Saison.
pFriem Barrel Aged Botanical Saison II is a soft wheated saison with brettanomyces, aged in freshly emptied Old Tom Gin barrels for 6 months. Racked onto juniper berries and hand-picked spruce and fir tips before bottle conditioning.
Tasting Notes
Barrel Aged Botanical Saison II pours bright golden with a touch of orange, and a white fluffy head of foam. A complex herbal aroma, the botanicals are bright and zesty, with pronounced pine and citrus character. A refreshing sip of evergreen, with highlights of lemon, resinous juniper and cardamom. The finish is dry and herbaceous, with light pepper, pine, subtle funk and crispy carbonation.
Food Pairings
Small plates such as grilled shrimp, bruschetta, or a fruit & cheese heavy charcuterie board. Citrus infused main courses like lemon grilled fish, chili-lime chicken or pasta with fresh herbs. Fruity or acidic desserts work well, such as lemon tarts, key lime pie, sorbet, or fruit salad.
