Saisons for Summer

Summer's almost here, and that means it’s the perfect time to brew Saisons. This time of year we sell more Saison yeast than any other. Why? Because those little buggers like it hot! And they make delicious beers. The two main Saison yeast Strains that we carry are Wyeast 3724 Belgian Saison Yeast and Wyeast 3711 French Saison yeast. The Belgian Strain is from the Du Pont brewery in Belgium and can ferment up to 95˚F! This is the yeast used in Saison du pont, the definitive example of a Saison. This strain is known for stalling out around a specific gravity of 1.030 if not fermented warm enough, but give it time and it will finish. Some people will add the French Saison yeast to finish up fermentation after a few days fermenting on the Belgian strain. Wyeast describes it as spicy, with complex aromatics, including bubble gum, very tart and dry on the palate with a mild fruitiness. The French strain is from Brasserie Thiriez in Esquelbecq in Northern France. This strain can handle lower fermentation temperatures (65-78˚F) and is known to be highly attenuative (which produces a drier beer). Wyeast says this strain enhances the use of spices and aroma hops, is extremely attenuative and leaves an unexpected silky and rich mouthfeel. Saison (French for "Season"), also known as Farmhouse ales, are a refreshing, medium to strong fruity/spicy ale with a distinctive yellow-orange color, highly carbonated, well hopped, and dry with a quenching acidity according to the BJCP. Brewed with Pilsner malts, Saisons are a versatile style that works well with different spices. They can even be dry hopped. The distinct Saison character comes from the strain of yeast used. Historically, Saisons were brewed in Farmhouses in the autumn or winter for consumption during the summer for the farm workers. Because of the lack of potable water, saisons would give the farm hands the hydration they needed without the threat of illness. Nice work if you can get it. Our brewshop teacher Dave is a huge fan of Saisons and makes many delicious types. Here is a recipe he developed called Hydra. Hydra Saison Extract/Partial Mash Hydra Saison All-Grain Also included is one of our signature recipes, Saison Du Grapefruit, that uses grapefruit peel to spice it up a bit. Saison du Grapefruit Extract Saison du Grapefruit All-Grain We are offering 10% off on both of these recipes until June 8th. Use coupon code DOUG at checkout. Discount available in store only. Hot or cold, keep on brewing! John
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