Since today is Valentine’s Day, I thought posting a review of a beer called “Love Buzz” would be most appropriate. Anchorage Brewing Company’s Love Buzz Saison is Craft Beer #2 from the Mike and Linda Craft Beer Christmas Present series of reviews. Beer #1 in this series was the Mikkeller Draft Bear.
To be completely honest, I had never heard of Anchorage Brewing Company until I pulled this bottle out of my gift bag. Since the label clearly states that this beer is a Saison (aka Farmhouse Ale), I was instantly intrigued since this is one of my favorite beer styles.
Here is what Anchorage Brewing Company has to say about their Love Buzz Saison:
A feeling overcomes, deriving of a most curious perplexity. A rich desire awakens to explore the contents of such delicate loveliness. Upon a deep connection with rounded lips, a bitter sweet complexity enters the soul…and so begins an amorous affair.
Heightened awareness envelopes the senses as the grandeur of such bold character develops. Caramel beauty exhibits itself, sprawling its full body widely upward, bubbling with excitement. Tantalizing effects of peppery bitterness grasps the tongue. Enchantment takes hold as a blanket of citrus slowly unfolds. As in any noteworthy love story, a subtle fruity sweetness of a rose emerges to the finish. A warm contentment grazes over, signifying a united marriage of balance and pleasure.
Fortitude has revealed itself to those who have encountered such an enriching experience. An experience so delectable, so defining, so unequivocal. An experience that is Love’s Buzz.
Was that the description of a Farmhouse Ale or an excerpt from a suburban housewife’s smut filled romance novel from her Kindle library??? Perhaps it was a bit of both. Anyway…
Let’s get on with the review…
- Appearance: Cloudy pale orange color. Thick and fluffy head that tops off at about an inch, then settles down to a thin layer of off white foam. Mild lacing.
- Aroma: Classic Farmhouse Ale scents, but with a slight twist thanks to the aging in French Oak Pinot Noir barrels. I’m getting honey, vanilla, tangerine orange zest, white grape juice, cloves, and last but not least, a mild dose of that Farmhouse Ale B.O. like funk.
- Taste: Moderate carbonation with a smooth and creamy mouthfeel thanks to the soft bubbles. Slightly tart and citrusy at the onset. At the half way point, some pepperiness kick in, as well as a good bit of bitterness. Tart, tasty, and somewhat astringent finish. Mildly bitter aftertaste that reminds of what happens when you bite into a a lemon peel.
- ABV: 8%
Although I don’t have a favorite or “go to” beer, there are several beers out there that I would never hesitate to order, and several of them just happen to be Farmhouse Ales (Saison Dupont, Goose Island Sofie, and Lost Abbey Red Barn Ale are three that immediately come to mind). Why do I love Farmhouse Ales so much? Because when they are done right, they are (a) incredibly refreshing, and (b) they pair well with a wide variety of food. I am pleased to report that the Anchorage Brewing Company’s Love Buzz Saison is a beautifully crafted and delicious interpretation of the beer style that I love so much. This is a seriously crisp and infinitely drinkable beer that screams to be paired with a luscious meal (a Valentine’s Day meal for two perhaps?). I’m thinking an assortment of cheeses, some grilled meats, and a plethora of roasted vegetables alongside the Love Buzz Saison would be a match made in heaven.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
