- OG
- 1.058
- FG
- 1.005
- ABV
- 6.9%
- IBU
- 28
- SRM
- 6
- Batch
- 5 gal
Grain bill
| Malt | Weight | % |
|---|---|---|
| Pilsner Malt | 10.00 lb | 83% |
| Wheat Malt | 1.00 lb | 8% |
| Vienna Malt | 1.00 lb | 8% |
Hop schedule
| Hop | Weight | Time | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hallertau Mittelfrüh | 1 oz | 60 min | boil |
| Saaz | 1 oz | 5 min | boil |
Yeast
Process
- Mash at 149°F for 60 min
- Boil 90 min
- primary cool: 3 days @ 68°F
- primary warm: 14 days @ 80°F
Notes
A simple pilsner-and-wheat grain bill plus warm fermentation does the heavy lifting. Pitch cool, then ramp up the temperature gradually to 78–80°F to drive attenuation.
Brewer: Don't be afraid to let it sit — saison yeast often crawls to FG over weeks. A small dose of US-05 at 8 days can help nudge it across the line.
Packaging: Carbonate high — 3.0–3.5 vols.
About this Saison
History
Saison originated in the French-speaking region of Wallonia, Belgium, where it was traditionally brewed during cooler months for consumption by seasonal farm workers during summer harvest. These beers were often made with whatever grains were available on the farm, resulting in considerable variation from brewery to brewery. The style nearly disappeared in the mid-twentieth century but experienced a revival beginning in the 1990s, particularly in North America. Saison is associated with the BJCP Saison category, which recognizes both standard-strength and higher-alcohol variations. The style is characterized by high carbonation, dry finish, and fruity, spicy yeast character.
Technique
The 149°F mash temperature targets a highly fermentable wort, promoting the dry finish characteristic of the style. This lower mash temperature encourages beta-amylase activity, producing more simple sugars that yeast can fully attenuate. The hop schedule emphasizes a modest bittering addition with Hallertau Mittelfrüh at sixty minutes, while the late Saaz addition contributes subtle herbal and floral notes without overwhelming the yeast character. Fermentation with SafBrew T-58 typically proceeds vigorously at warmer temperatures, often between 68-78°F, which encourages the development of fruity esters and phenolic spice notes. Extended warm conditioning helps achieve full attenuation and proper carbonation.
Ingredient notes
The grain bill relies primarily on Pilsner malt for a clean, lightly grainy base that allows yeast character to dominate. Wheat malt contributes body, head retention, and a subtle breadiness while remaining a supporting player at roughly eight percent of the total grist. Vienna malt adds a touch of malt complexity and light color without introducing caramel sweetness. Hallertau Mittelfrüh provides gentle, noble hop character with herbal and floral qualities, while Saaz reinforces this profile with its characteristic spicy, earthy notes. SafBrew T-58 is a Belgian ale strain known for moderate attenuation and production of peppery phenolics alongside fruity esters.
Variations
Within the broader Saison category, some brewers emphasize rustic farmhouse character with higher phenolic expression, while others pursue a cleaner, more delicate profile. Commercial examples range from pale golden to amber, with some incorporating spices like coriander or grains of paradise, though many modern interpretations rely solely on yeast character. Substituting a portion of Pilsner malt with Munich malt would increase malt presence and color, shifting the beer toward a more robust interpretation. Using a different yeast strain, such as Wyeast 3724 or White Labs WLP565, would dramatically alter the ester and phenol profile, as these strains behave quite differently from T-58.
When to drink & pairings
Saison pairs well with a wide range of foods due to its dry finish, moderate bitterness, and effervescent character. The style complements seafood, particularly mussels and oysters, as well as roasted chicken, pork, and mild cheeses like chèvre. The peppery yeast character works alongside dishes with fresh herbs, vinaigrettes, and light spicing. Serve in a tulip or wine glass at 45-50°F to showcase the aromatic qualities while maintaining refreshment. The beer suits warm-weather occasions, outdoor gatherings, and meals where a versatile, food-friendly beer is desired without dominating the table.