Ommegang-Hennepin

Type: Bottle

7.7% ABV

25 IBU

A

Probably Ommegang’s most  accessible beer, Hennepin remains the strongest and freshest American Saison I’ve had to date.  The brew, named for Father Hennepin who informed Europeans of the beauty of Niagara Falls, mimics the monstrous and crisp sound of Niagara’s cascading beauty. Hennepin pours a beautiful golden yellow with a white foamy head.  The light aromas of sweet pear and honey bubble off the glass.  When it hits the tongue, the beer tastes sharp and full, with an earthy yeasty body, and notes of coriander, lemon, and spice.   It cleans the palet and infuses the senses with a fruity, doughy, and herbal vigor.  Hennepin is very drinkable, even with its deep complexity and spicy accents.  It’s an excellent beer which has helped Ommegang continue the astounding success of their Belgian-style Brewery in Cooperstown.  At ten to twelve dollars a four pack (eight dollars for a 750 ml long neck bottle), I’d also give Hennepin an A for price.  You won’t find many cheaper Saisons, and none of them are as good as this one (even the Belgians).  If you’ve never had an Ommegang, this is a great way to start a relationship with one of America’s best craft breweries.

In Conclusion: Perhaps the greatest American Saison, a fresh, earthy addition to any meal, and one of Ommegang’s best brews.  This is a wonderful beer for late evenings in the summer and early fall, with good friends and light conversation.

Food Pairing: Spicy asian dishes, especially those with seafood and ginger.

“Not all chemicals are bad. Without chemicals such as hydrogen and oxygen, for example, there would be no way to make water, a vital ingredient in beer.”

-Dave Barry