And So it BeGins! Barrel-Aged Saisons

And So It BeGins…

I am thrilled to share some exciting news from California Wild Ales. We’re about to embark on a captivating journey with freshly emptied gin barrels generously provided by our good friends at Cutwater Spirits. Our team is taking our beloved Spelt Saison base and infusing it with the unique and tantalizing flavors that only gin barrels can offer.

This project is nothing short of magical as we watch our Spelt Saison undergo a remarkable transformation. It will ferment and mature in these gin-soaked barrels for a minimum of 9 months before we release it to our eager fans. This extended aging period represents our unwavering commitment to crafting exceptional and distinctive brews that push the boundaries of traditional brewing.

The Gin Barrel Influence: A Symphony of Flavors

The decision to age our Spelt Saison in gin barrels is a match made in craft beer heaven. Gin barrels are renowned for imparting a spectrum of intriguing and delightful flavors. Some of the vital flavor elements we expect these barrels to contribute to our Spelt Saison include:

1. Botanical Infusion: Gin barrels carry the botanical bouquet used in gin production, including juniper berries, coriander, and citrus peels. As our Saison rests in the barrels, it will absorb the essence of these botanicals, creating a harmonious interplay of herbal and citrus notes.
2. Oak and Vanilla: Like any wooden barrel, gin barrels bring a hint of oakiness and vanilla to the party. The aging process allows the beer to take on these subtle, creamy undertones, adding depth and complexity to the final product.
3. Subtle Juniper Spice: Juniper is the heart and soul of gin and carries a unique aromatic and slightly spicy quality. As our Saison mingles with the gin-soaked wood, it’s expected to pick up a whisper of juniper, which could add an intriguing twist to the beer’s profile.
4. A Touch of Dryness: Gin barrels are known for leaving a touch of dryness on the palate, which could complement the Spelt Saison’s natural effervescence, resulting in a well-balanced and refreshing experience.

These flavors will bring a new level of complexity to our Spelt Saison and create a memorable drinking experience for those fortunate enough to savor it.

A Long-Awaited Journey

For us at California Wild Ales, the decision to age our Spelt Saison in gin barrels has been a long-cherished dream. Ever since we created our Spelt Saison recipe, we’ve been eager to experiment with different barrel-aging techniques, and gin barrels seemed like the perfect next step. The anticipation has been building, and we can’t wait to see how this marriage of flavors unfolds.

This particular release is part of a larger project that we intend to carry on in the future. We are committed to producing and releasing Saisons with increasing regularity, exploring different flavors, and pushing the boundaries of what barrel aging can bring to our beers. Gin Barrel Saisons are just one of the many exciting endeavors we have in store for our fans.

In a world where craft breweries continue redefining beer possibilities, California Wild Ales stands at the forefront of innovation and creativity. Our dedication to experimenting with unique barrel-aging techniques like gin barrels is a testament to our unwavering commitment to producing exceptional brews that captivate the senses and take beer enthusiasts on a flavorful journey. So, keep your eyes peeled and your taste buds ready for California Wild Ales’ Gin Barrel Saison, a craft beer experience that’s sure to be nothing short of extraordinary.