Posted By: Melissa Ward
A few weeks ago I dipped into a snifter full of Dogfish Head’s version of Saison du BUFF — a collaboration between DFH, Victory Brewing and Stone. After enjoying that beer (maybe a bit too much), I knew I had to hunt down Victory’s and Stone’s. And luck was with me.
Today I want to share Victory Brewing Co.’s Saison du BUFF. Like Dogfish Head, I’m able to get the majority of Victory’s beers right at my local liquor store, mainly due to the brewery’s closeness — about an hour away.
I had my husband Ray join me in the tasting because 1) that’s what we do, and 2) I’m still recovering from a rather unpleasant cold, which has my olfactory and taste senses a bit muddled. He was my tasting wingman.
Like DFH’s version, Victory’s SDB pours a pale gold with a thin, white head that dissipates fairly quick. The spice is very evident in the nose and a lot of the herbal notes of rosemary, sage and thyme come out—with rosemary taking the forefront. When giving the glass a few swirls to kick up aroma, a bit of barnyard funk comes out, which is a nice touch amidst the herbs and spice.
Ray noticed a light, fruity sweetness to the beer, something he associates with farmhouse ales. He also found the rosemary complimented the citrus in the beer. I had a difficult time recognizing the traditional saison attributes, unlike my first sampling of Dogfish’s SDB. When I looked up Victory’s version, I came across a review that claimed it was “more Prima Pils than saison.” While I agree that this beer is more of another style than a saison, I don’t agree with likening it to a base of Prima Pils. It’s just something … else. And that’s not a bad thing.
If I were to pair this beer with food, I would go for a nice whitefish, like haddock, topped with a not-too-spicy salsa with plenty of cilantro. Ray pointed out that the cilantro would go well with the bright bitterness of the herbs and hops. He also suggested pairing SDB with grilled veggies tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette. Even some bread and the right cheese would go well with this beer.
And finally, yes, I have a bottle of Stone’s Saison du BUFF thanks to a little help from my friends. Stay tuned!
Originally posted 2010-10-11 09:05:14.
I tried DFH’s version (only one I’ve been able to get my hands on) and it was delicious, but without any food to match it with; it was opened mistakenly when someone was looking for an Aprihop…but that’s another story
I’m dying to crack this with something really robust, like a beef or lamb roast. I think the herbal notes would really complement!
Excited to hear your thoughts on Stone’s version next!