Brewer: Steamworks Brewery, Vancouver, BC, and New Belgium Brewery, CO
Style: Belgian-Style Pale Ale
Alc/Vol: 7%
Description: A collaboration ale produced in tandem by Steamworks and the New Belgium Brewery, this Golden Belgian Ale is a very eclectic mix. It starts with Pilsner and Cara 45 malts and then bitters them with Stryian Celeia and Stryian Golding hops. The mix is then given additional flavor from Ancho chillies, De Arbol chillies, and Szechuan peppercorns, and fermented with Belgian yeast.
Tasting notes: While this beer is very consistent with a good Saison, it also packs in influences that range from the traditional Belgian, German and British, and Slovenian. What I immediately noticed was the powerful ginger spice, coriander and yeast. But in time, the Pilsner malts, peppery notes and spiciness really came through. A very interesting combination, and one that brings together two of my favorite breweries.
Appearance: Deep golden/amber, slightly cloudy, good foam retention and carbonation
Nose: Light malt, Belgian yeast, coriander and mixed spice
Taste: Light malt, immediate burst of ginger spice, yeast, coriander and hot chillies
Aftertaste: Lingering malt, yeast, and spice notes, refreshing and spicy
Overall: 8.5/10
