Starr Hill Brewery | Daily Grind Peppercorn Farmhouse Ale

On deck this evening we have another excellent beer from our friends in Crozet, Virginia; Daily Grind Peppercorn Farmhouse Ale. We’re coming out of my favorite season – winter warmers, porters, stouts so I’m always a bit hesitant when the spring beer starts rolling in. However, as the weather warms and the color palate of nature begins to show its vibrance, it only makes sense to crack open a beer with a lighter hue.

Daily Grind Peppercorn Farmhouse Ale lives up to its name. Before I even poured the beer I could detect the spicy scent of peppercorns. This beer pours a light gold, almost straw color with a thick head that quickly dissipates but lingers softly at the edges with hypnotizing air bubbles that rise gently from the bottom. On the nose citrus fruits are evident followed by spice and a soft pop from the peppercorn. On the tongue, sweet yet a bit earthy – peppery – finishing dry, almost tart. At 6.2% ABV this is an excellent spring evening sipping beer.

Final snobs: The peppercorn seems to amplify the natural pepper character of what you’d expect from a saison. It is a welcome addition as it seems to also bring the other elements of this beer into greater clarity. Nicely done. Definitely a beer I’d have again as well as recommend. It would pair very well with smoked salmon. Just say’n.

Prost!