This Friday’s beer is an Imperial Saison from Belgian Brewery, Struise. The brewery was voted the best Brewery in the world in 2008 and my friends at House of Belgium were kind enough to send me a bottle of this seasonal beer to review. Saison is brewed in the cooler months and made to drink in the summer, so it’s one of those styles that go hand in hand with Summer!
There’s no description for this beer, so I’ll move on swiftly!
As for the recipe for this one, it’s kept well under wraps. However, after trying this brew I’m going to give it a good go! I think Munich, Honey, Golden and 2-Row Malts have been used in this one. Usually Saisons also have Wheat or Oats in too, but I don’t think this one does. As for the hops, I think Struise have been quite experimental with this one. Styrian Golding, Saaz but with some Centennial and Sorachi Ace hops. This beer is then left to naturally ferment, which gives Saisons their funky flavour.
This beer pours a Ruby/Dark Amber colour with a thin White head which dissipates quickly leaving no lacing. On the nose there’s Citrus, Honey, Floral, funky Belgian Yeast and Brett notes. I’m still really unsure if there’s Wheat in this beer as there’s that signature Wheaty smell on the nose too. When you taste this beer, the first initial notes are the tartness from the Brettanomyces. The Sour and Funky Belgian notes are the backbone for this beer throughout the palate, with Citrus, Lemon Peel and Honey building throughout. For a Saison, this is very well hopped! The carbonation is very low, which was an initial surprise for an Imperial Saison, but the mouthfeel is thick and oily. It finishes Dry.
If you’re into Saisons, this is a great Summer refresher and I recommend it highly. You can get this beer and tonnes of others delivered pretty much worldwide from The House Of Belgium.
EST. CALORIES: 330 ABV: 11%
Good Beer dot Co 