ABV – 6% “The times they are a-changing”. When faced with extreme change, one can react in in various ways, I find that the best way for me to take it all in is by enjoying a nice beer and mulling it over. I was lucky to be given the opportunity to try the new offering from Grassroots Brewing Company, an offshoot project from Hill Farmstead’s Shaun Hill, and contract brewed by Anchorage Brewing Company. The two breweries are known for their wildly fermented awesomeness and together, I figured, would yield a delectable experience on the palate.

Arctic Soiree is a saison/farmhouse ale brewed with Brett, lime juice and hibiscus, all of which is aged in oak. The color on this gem is reminiscent of ruby red grapefruit juice and the nose agrees with notes of lime tartness and a touch of funk. There’s a pleasant oak dryness on the palate complimented by a citric tart, floral attributes and an almost oily subtle brett. The mouthfeel is light and carbonation is kept low, it would be very refreshing on a hot day. Surprisingly to me, most of Anchorage’s brews including this contract brew, can have an overwhelming use of funk (which I do love) but I was pleasantly thrilled that it was much more toned down and thus paired even better with the elements. To sum up the beer with one word, I would have to say – mellow; which is exactly what I should do before freaking out in the face of change.