Saison Imperiale Belgian Farmhouse Ale

Saison Imperiale Belgian Farmhouse Ale, De Proefbrouwerij, Lochristi, Belgium

• $2.49 / 11.2-ounce bottle and $8.99 / 750 milliliter cork-finished bottle in limited quantities at metro beverage stores

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De Proefbrouwerij

Saison Imperiale Belgian Farmhouse Ale.

BOB TOWNSEND
BEER PICK

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• Bob Townsend is editor of Southern Brew News, a bimonthly beer publication distributed throughout the Southeast.

• Profile: De Proefbrouwerij is the brainchild of Belgian brewer Dirk Naudts, who’s become renowned for his scientific approach to creating experimental beers rooted in tradition. Part of the small-batch De Proef Brewmaster’s Collection, Saison Imperiale is Naudts’ take on Belgian farmhouse ale, a refreshing but complex summer seasonal. But at 8.5 percent alcohol by volume, it’s bigger and bolder than classic examples of the style (namely Saison Dupont). Saison Imperiale is bittered with Tomahawk and Goldings hops and fermented with a mix of two different yeast strains, saccharomyces and brettanomyces. The result is an effervescent rush of fruity, tart, spicy and earthy aromas and flavors, including a hint of coriander, and a lively acidity balanced by a pleasant malt character and a dry finish.

• Pair with: Saison is well known as a versatile food beer, and despite its relatively powerful presence, De Proef Imperiale is no exception. Match it up with anything from grilled steak or salmon to bright and spicy Asian dishes. It would also make an exquisite pairing for a plate of funky farmstead cheeses.