Stillwater Artisanal Ales Stateside Saison
It’s been a few months since I last enjoyed a brew from Maryland’s gypsy brewer Stillwater Artisanal Ales. That’s just not acceptable. Thankfully, a recent trip to the Total Wine by the office the other week had me come face-to-face with this bottle of the brewery’s Stateside Saison, a beer I hadn’t had before.
Not only was this an opportunity to try something new, but also rekindle a healthy relationship with the brewery and my liver. Stateside Saison uses European malt, hops from both the U.S. and New Zealand as well as a “classic farmhouse ale yeast.” The result is a refreshing, vibrant beer with a more pronounced hop zing that was perfect for a hot (and I do mean HOT) Virginia Summer day.
Appearance
A thick, frothy white head rests atop the hazy, golden amber brew. It certainly looks inviting.
Aroma
Peppery Belgian yeast, hay, grassy hops, a slight funk, lemon zest and grain all come together in a fairly clean nose.
Taste
Bready, cereal malts arrive first and are quickly followed by lemony citrus, grapefruit a light hop bite and a subtle, welcoming bit of funk. There’s a fairly prominent hop character throughout the beer that balances out the malt base well. The brew is sharp with a crisp carbonation and a light body. Very drinkable — especially at 6.8% ABV.
Overall
I thoroughly enjoyed this beer. It reminds me a good deal of the brewery’s Cellar Door, but with a more forward hop character which is more than perfect after working in the yard on a very hot and humid afternoon. I will most certainly be purchasing this one again.
Rating:3.75/5
