Saison Tournante - Barrel Fermentation II
The Virginia Beer Company
Saison – 7.1% ABV – 21 IBU
Barrel Fermentation II is the second release in a series of uniquely barrel-fermented recipes. This red Saison blend is the result of an exclusively rustic primary fermentation - skipping the stainless steel vessels in favor of almost a year of fermentation (since July 2016) directly in 2009 red wine French & American oak barrels provided by The Williamsburg Winery. Upon transfer from the kettle, four known yeast strains were then added directly to the barrels: a traditional Saison; a "wild" Belgian strain of Saccharomyces; and two strains of Brettanomyces (one Belgian + one Virginian). Exceptionally dry with a hint of sweetness thanks to additions of Bohemian Pilsner. Amarillo hops lend a hint of citrus that complements the Brett fruity funkiness and oak. Transferred to bottles in early June 2017, this Saison is now undergoing bottle-conditioning with Brett Brux, which will produce even more of the trademark esters + phenols that often mark a "Brett beer" as funky with hints of tartness. Entirely appropriate to enjoy now or to cellar for a future occasion.
Where to get it
Not currently available in Richmond
Top Beers by The Virginia Beer Company
DEADBOLT | 1 | The Virginia Beer Company Williamsburg, VA | Imperial IPA 9% ABV–83 IBU | |
Free Verse | 1 | The Virginia Beer Company Williamsburg, VA | IPA 6.8% ABV–77 IBU | |
39 Words (2021) | The Virginia Beer Company Williamsburg, VA | Blonde Ale 5% ABV | ||
39 Words (2022) | The Virginia Beer Company Williamsburg, VA | Lager 7.5% ABV | ||
65 Roses Wild Rice Porter | The Virginia Beer Company Williamsburg, VA | Porter 6.2% ABV–37 IBU |