Once again Gateway pays tribute to local landmarks and attractions. The Cove is a small, sheltered bay and beach in the North Bay area on the pristine waters of Trout Lake. As always, the Gateway art work on the can never ceases to intrigue. There is a humanesque rodent sun tanning on the beach with a brew in hand and an almost empty cooler. In the background a storm is “brewing” as the sun sets and in the distance the Loch Ness monster is rising from the waves. I would guess the “Nessie” siting may have something to do the almost empty cooler. Tis the saison you know.
Saisons, al
so known sometimes as farmhouse ales, can be a mix of grains and spices. The traditional saisons had an earthy character due to aging. These tend to be complex beers and just like cranky old men, some are not as approachable and easy going as others.
This brew pours golden clear with a bright white sandcastle on top and lots of bubbles. A very active pour with non stop bubbles rising. An earthy bready nutty aroma. A complex situation. First swig renders a fresh malt taste and left a good first impression. It is a bit bubbly to start but it settled down quickly. It is the easiest drink saison I have had. Complex for sure but balanced also. As it warmed the spices became more prominent, mainly clove, but not too much and not detracting from the flavour or ease of quaff. Nice flavour, smooth finish no bitters or hops. As Rod Argent would say, it is the time of the saison**.
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