I always enjoy trying Dany's creations and was happy to find this one up in Milwaukee. Cork pops and pours into my Fantome glass a deep hazy brown with red accents and a creamy inch of off white head that has great staying power. Aromas of crisp earthy, bready malts along with a mellow barnyard accent. Yeast tones meet a melange of spiciness where the pepper takes the lead. Slight fruit undertones as well.
First sip brings a cornucopia of flavors. Crisp, slightly bready malts meet a good mix of fruity flavors intermixing with the classic Fantome yeast. As it flows down the pepper kicks in and there's a slight burn on the back of the palate. Mild tartness along with a barnyard / hay accent. Lots going on here...tasty, spicy saison.
Mouthfeel is light and arid making this incredibly drinkable. Creamy with perfect carbonation. Overall, I never quite know what to expect when I crack a Fantome beer and this was a winner for me. At 4% it's incredibly drinkable and the black pepper is well integrated and not overdone. Now it's time for me to find another bottle.
This beer gets a rating of Great bordering on Amazing from me. Simply an awesome traditional saison.
Follow the mysterious ghost of Fantôme by surfing over to http://www.fantome.be
