I realized there were a couple of beers that didn’t win their deserved craft beer of the week status because of my vacation, so better late than never, particularly because they’re still available.
First up is the first saison release from Townsite. Seeing as brewer Cedric Dauchot is himself Belgian (with the beer’s name referring to the distance from Powell River to his hometown of Horrues in le old country), you’d expect a half-decent result from this one. The result is, in fact, the best saison I’ve yet had in this province; well, OK, it maybe ties with the late, lamented Deckhand (Lighthouse, please bring this back).
7800 pours a slightly clouded pale gold with a bright white head that fades to a thin rim.
There’s a heady, fruity and spicy aroma featuring bitter orange, black pepper, cumin, coriander and hay, alongside subtle mint-like herbs and a hint of mineraliness.
Flavourwise, gentle orange and lemon fruit notes appear up front, grounded by earthy spice notes. The body and mouthfeel are full, rich and fabulous, no doubt augmented by the grain bill, which features spelt, oats and rye alongside barley. This divine body supports the flavours effortlessly, as subtly bitter orange becomes rooted in the tongue and fades slowly and deliciously. The beer leaves a lovely warmth in the throat.
Pairing? Merguez sausages or roast duck with a sweet fruit sauce would be a good start, I reckon.
Beer Cat: Likes
650ml, at select private liquor stores
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