For today’s craft beer review I’m going to be trying the Ommegang Hennepin brewed by Brewery Ommegang located in Cooperstown, New York.

Ommegang is a very well respected craft brewery that continually churns out quality products.  I have yet to have this particular beer, but I’m sure they have created another splendid drink.

From the website, ommegang.com, we find this description of the Ommegang Hennepin (Farmhouse Saison Ale).

As you pour this rich golden ale into your glass, consider your surroundings.  Are you in a restaurant?  Outside on the deck?  Is it hot and humid?  Cold and brisk?  Take a drink.  Feel the way Hennepin is bright and lively in your mouth with a warming mix of spicy gingersnap and citrusy hops.  Refreshing.  Relaxing.  It’s true:  no matter where you are, Hennepin is the perfect ale for all seasons.

For some reason, I don’t think I have written a post on a Saison yet.  Well, let’s correct that mistake shall we?

This brew has an ABV of 7.7% and comes in a 12 oz. bottle.

From the pour I received a very nice, clear, yellow color.  A big, bright white, fluffy and creamy head was formed from a medium aggressive pour.  The head was smooth looking at first, however after a minute or two it started to become rocky and uneven.  The retention time was outstanding and the lacing was quite suitable.  A steady stream of bubbles eased their way to the top to support that excellent crown.  This beer looked great in the glass for sure.

The fragrance started with a nice burst of lemon citrus followed by a sturdy hint of spice (pepper).  An enjoyable yeasty aroma swirled and mixed well with a grassy hop smell.  Hidden underneath was a fruity breeze of green apples and a delicate “barnyard funk” that tied it all together.  Very nice and well balanced.

The taste brought forth more of the lemon citrus and quite a bit more of the spicy pepper.  Competent tones of yeast with only the slightest savor of the “funk.”  It was lightly sour and sweet, however it maintained a notable hop bitterness for the entirety.  The sourness was totally manageable.  No real distinction of alcohol was noticed either, which I thought I might find. 

The mouthfeel was medium and a tad sharp.  It was dry, crisp, refreshing and thirst quenching.  It left a touch of warmth on the swallow, although I’m not sure if that was from the alcohol or the pepper.  Either way, it was welcomed and enjoyed.  Some great carbonation on the mouthfeel and a fertile amount of flavor was left behind on the palate.

We have found a very good beer here.  I personally do not have a great deal of experience when it comes to Saisons, but I really liked this one.  It’s good all around and easily drinkable.  It has a tremendous appearance, a worthwhile aroma, a great taste and a superb mouthfeel.  I would highly recommend giving this brew a try.  This beer would totally hit the spot during the warmer months and I’m definitely going to pick this up again in the near future.   

What do you guys find to be another great Saison styled beer?  Leave a comment and let me know.

As always, thanks for reading and commenting folks.   Cheers!!!

Score:  4.15 out of 5
Grade:  A-