Charlottesville Area Masters of Real Ale

I cracked open my first Saison tonight and I must admit, its pretty tasty. Could it be a tad drier? Yep. Could it be a bit paler in color? Sure. Will I gladly drink every last drop of my Belgo-styled brew? But of course, my fellow brewing brother and sisters! Enough nonsense. Cut to the chase.

Appearance: A rich golden hue, a vigorous white head
Aroma: lemons, Goldings, hay, orange, flint
Flavor: crisp malty core, refreshing, hoppy, fruity,
Body: medium with a dry finish, highly carbonated
Overall: fits the BJCP guidelines, still a bit young, pretty damned tasty if I do say so myself although I'd love other opinions.
Faults: Gushes a bit--like those Champagnes popped post Super Bowl.

ABV: 7.1%
Apparent Attenuation: 84%

Post Script: I'm planning on making a series of Saisons called "Dans Saison"; each of the four will attempt to capture a bit of the essence of each season. I'm thinking that Fall's selection might resemble that spiced Brasserie Vapeur offering--you know, the one whose label has a cartoon pig wiping its ass. Obscure reference alert! Actually its a fine brew that Matthew at the Wine Warehouse makes sure to stock. Check it out.

Sounds good.  When my pils is ready (two weeks) we should trade some bottles.  Then we can each write a review.

I'd love to check it out.  Saisons, arguably, are the best beer to pair with.....just about any type of food.  If you are eating, it'll usually complement it.

I brewed a Saison last year and I need to do so again because I took a lot of notes about it and what I wanted to change to improve it next time.  But it turned out well and, surprisingly, it got the most praise of any of my homebrews last year.  I guess it was 25% because it was good, and 75% because it was something that most people have not tried before.  A new experience.

I just recently brewed a Belgian (a dark, strong ale) so it might be a batch or two away.  After the Maibock and something else….