Exploring the Saison: A Classic Brew with a Modern Twist at Schoolhouse Brewing

Exploring the Saison | Schoolhouse Brewing

Schoolhouse Brewing Blog

Exploring the Saison: A Classic Brew with a Modern Twist

At Schoolhouse Brewing, we're passionate about exploring beer styles that have deep roots, unique flavors, and a knack for surprising even the most seasoned drinkers. One of our favorites to showcase? The humble, yet complex, Saison! This farmhouse ale has a storied history, a distinctive set of ingredients, and a flavor profile that's hard to beat. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just diving into the world of craft brews, a saison offers a little something for everyone. Let's dive into the past, dissect what goes into making this classic, and get a taste of what makes a saison so special.

The Origins of Saison: A Farmer's Brew

To appreciate a saison, we've got to go back to its roots in the 18th and 19th centuries, in the farms of Wallonia, Belgium. Unlike many beers we know today, which are brewed in centralized breweries, saisons were originally brewed by farmers, for farmers. Back then, each farm would create their own version, using ingredients that were available locally and seasonally. They'd brew in the cooler months to avoid spoilage and then store the beer until summer, providing refreshment and sustenance for the seasonal farmworkers, or "saisonniers."

Farmers would adapt their recipes to what they had on hand, leading to an eclectic range of flavors. Today, that creative spirit lives onā€”though saisons may no longer be farm-specific, their character remains rustic, refreshing, and packed with personality.

Ingredients: A True MĆ©lange

One of the things that sets a saison apart is its ingredient list. True to its farmhouse roots, there's no "one way" to make a saison, giving brewers (like us!) a lot of room to experiment. The base, however, remains simple: barley, hops, water, and yeast.

  • Barley and Other Grains: Traditionally, saisons feature a mix of barley malt and sometimes wheat, rye, or spelt. The blend of grains adds complexity to the mouthfeel and flavor, contributing to the rustic texture that's iconic to this style.
  • Hops: Saisons tend to use continental hops, usually in moderate quantities, contributing subtle earthy, floral, and herbal notes.
  • Yeast: Saison yeast is where the magic happens! These strains impart fruity and spicy esters, like pepper, citrus, and clove.
  • Additions: Spices like coriander or orange peel can add a subtle complexity, though a well-made saison doesn't rely on these extras to shine.

Tasting Profile: What to Expect in Every Sip

Saisons are all about balance and refreshment, making them perfect for those long summer days (or a well-chilled glass in any season, if you ask us!). Here's what you can expect from a classic saison:

  • Aromas: Fruity esters like lemon and apricot, paired with spicy hints of white pepper or cloves.
  • Flavor: Dry yet bursting with flavorā€”fruity, spicy, and a mild hop bitterness that keeps it refreshing.
  • Body: Light to medium, with a crisp, dry finish that makes it ideal for pairing with food.
  • Mouthfeel: Effervescent and slightly creamy, making every sip refreshing and intriguing.

Our Take on the Saison at Schoolhouse Brewing

Here at Schoolhouse Brewing, we like to bring a bit of modern flair to classic styles. Our saison nods to its farmhouse heritage but brings in some contemporary twists. Expect vibrant flavors that showcase the complexity of the yeast, with subtle additions that pay homage to the inventive spirit of the style. We love experimenting with ingredients, so don't be surprised if our saison has a unique twist each season!

So, next time you're in the mood for a beer that's as historical as it is refreshing, stop by Schoolhouse Brewing and give our saison a try. With each sip, you'll be tasting history, innovation, and a little bit of that farmhouse magic.