Saison

Saison, which translates as season, is a Belgian style ale that originated in the French-speaking region of Wallonia as a seasonal thirst-quenching beer that was mainly brewed during winter or fall, and it was then left to ferment until the summer.

Also known as farmhouse ale, it was made by farmers, and though each brewer had a unique recipe, saisons were usually pale, low in alcohol, and had distinctive spicy notes. The style is believed to have originated sometime in the 18th century, but its popularity declined by the end of the 20th century.

Only recently, it has been reintroduced by various craft breweries that brew versatile saisons which are typically higher in alcohol and which range from pale golden to light amber. Modern versions also often include spices and tend to be fruity and subtly malty, with light hop bitterness.

They are often bottle-conditioned—they undergo a second fermentation in the bottle—and tend to be quite effervescent and refreshing. Although they are quite versatile in character, most varieties can match full-flavored and spicy dishes, seafood, creamy cheese, and even tangy desserts.