The Harvester

This is one freaking cool label

I am always intrigued by a good Saison, but I am all in when you see a label as sweet as this one!

The Harvester from Jukes Ale Works is spot on for the style. I love the light body and spiciness of this beer. Each sip draws you in, and the dry finish has you wanting to reach for the glass very quickly! I think it has the perfect ABV, around 6.3%.

This Saison, for me, is unique in that it has a good deal of Rye malt that adds to the spiciness. I am looking forward to having this beer on the patio while grilling or smoking some fine meat! I am anxious to see how it pairs with different kinds of smoked meat.

If you haven’t been to Jukes Ale Works, it is an excellent place for the fantastic craft beer and the great food. Also, their rooftop patio adds to the wonderful experience!

Cheers!

Reflections of Thickets and Thorns

As a mediocre photographer, I was excited to review Thickets and Thorns from Vis Major Brewing Co because of its beautiful color. The sun was bright, and as I started to take the photos, the color depending on the sun was this deep crimson to a more brilliant red. To top it off, no matter the angle, I was getting lots of reflections!

If you were to reflect on this raspberry Saison, the berry aroma is an excellent attention grabber. The tartness of the raspberry and the dryness of this Saison have cider and wine characteristics. I think that is why Mrs. Joe has enjoyed this one and only beer in her travels with me!

The finish has those peppery notes you will find in the Saison style. Thickets and Thorns is a unique beer that is quite the sipper coming in at 9.1% ABV!

Take time to seek sanctuary at Vis Major Brewing to enjoy their wide variety of craft beer in an extremely inviting atmosphere.

Cheers!

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!