I’ve long been a fan of Crux Fermentation Project’s saison ale, Crux Farmhouse, which debuted ages ago and still returns as a seasonal offering. Crux has released a number of other farmhouse-styled beers over the years, many of which are barrel-aged specialties, but Crux Farmhouse is essentially its standard version of the style.

This year Crux released the beer as a spring seasonal in cans, and provided me some. I honestly don’t recall if the brewery canned it in the past, though I know it was in bottles at one point. But I was excited for the cans!

The description says:

Farmhouse ales originated in the French region of Belgium and offered refreshing relief to seasonal farm workers (“saisonniers”) from the summer heat. When we set out to brew our saison, we were intent on paying homage to its heritage while also giving it our own unique twist. Fermentation coaxes out peppery, herbal and slightly tart attributes, and releases slightly smokey, earthy esters, while a touch of acidulated malt and wheat lends the perfect complement. Resulting in a refreshing palate pleaser regardless of the season.

The beer is 6.5% ABV with 25 IBUs.

Appearance: Brassy golden color, fairly clear, active carbonation but not much of a residual head.

Smell: Saison-y yeast phenolics with light clove, not-quite-bubblegum, a hint of white pepper, and a hint of band-aid. Some fruity esters that go in a ripe plum direction.

Taste: Some spice, some grainy flavors that go a bit rye or rustic, and those yeast phenolics contributing similar flavor notes as in the aroma. Hay, yarrow, green (under ripe) strawberries, white pepper, raw wheat berries (kernels).

Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied with a bit of viscosity but it finishes fairly dry.

Overall: It’s a nice example of the style and a nice sipper. I could go for a drier finish but that’s just a quibble.