Apricot Au Poivre Saison

Beautifully aged in a Chardonnay Barrel

When I purchased this reserved series Saison, I thought about the apricot tree in my grandfather’s yard. When the fruit became ripe, it was a treat to pick and eat them! The thing I love about an apricot is that it has great flavor without being overly sweet. Over the years, I have had a few apricot beers, but never a barrel-aged one, so I was intrigued by Apricot Au Poivre Saison from Nebraska Brewing Company!

The nose on this Belgian Saison is a light apricot and wine aroma. The front end has apricot notes that blend into the tartness of the Chardonnay from the barrel-aging. The mouthfeel is light with a good amount of carbonation from this bottle-conditioned Ale. The pepper note becomes present as you reach the middle and adds to the irresistible dry finish.

A delightful warming beer at 7.5% ABV that I believe beer and wine enthusiasts will both enjoy!

Cheers!

Santa's Blonde Dilemma

I hope you are not thinking bad thoughts about Santa! No, he is not stepping out on Mrs. Claus, this particular blonde that has presented a quandary is an apple brandy barrel aged Belgian Blonde Ale.

You see Santa was recently in Omaha in the Old Market and stopped by Upstream Brewing Company for a quick bite to eat and a pint. The beertender said, “Santa you look a little cold, how about something to warm you up?”. Santa was happy to oblige.

Santa said, “Oh my this beautiful beer has such nice fruit aroma especially apple.” I completely agree with Santa. As I opened my nice bottle of the Belgian Blonde the aroma was light and fruity with some hint of brandy.

Santa went on to say, “This isn’t your normal beer. It has this crisp, dry, tartness that is like no other ale I have ever had. There is slight resemblance to a dry, apple cider but that fades fast as the finish is rich and warming.”

The beertender smile and replied, “Santa I am glad you like this one. It is not your typical barrel aged craft beer; it comes in at 7.1% ABV which is lighter than most. But I still recommend having your sled parked for the night.”

Santa had this bewildered look on his face, “How am I going to deliver this wonderful brew to all of those deserving adults out there that still believe?”

The beertender said, “Santa don’t worry we have you covered. Just send them our way and we will take care of them. Happy Christmas to All and to All a Good Night!”

Santa in dismay, “Umm I think that is my line…”

Cheers!

A Special Wood Werks

Isn’t the color incredible

I never turn down the opportunity to try something incredibly unique. A good friend got me this Great Divide barrel aged Old Fashioned inspired Belgian styled ale and I couldn’t wait to try it!

Immediately the aroma grabs you with fruit and floral scents. This beer is complex in trying to break down all of the flavors. I do get some of the cherry, but it is not overpowering. It seems to come out more in the finish for me. There is light fruit flavor throughout and you really get a nice maltiness in this beer. I am not a brandy drinker so I can’t exactly explain the details on what it provides other than some additional fruit tones and the light booziness of a barrel aged beer. Great Divide did a great job of not going to crazy on the alcohol as this beer comes in at 8.8% ABV.

I think this beer will attract a large audience of people. Those who enjoy craft beer, wine, and spirits. The uniqueness of the experience of having this beer is one you will be talking to friends about for weeks to come!

Cheers!