I am very excited to make my first entry into the #beersaturday challenge. As a once avid brewer and continual admirer of the art of craft beer, any dialogue on the subject always serves to entertain me.
Nestled in the Missouri Ozarks is a fantastic and ever-growing brewery named after one of the area waterways, Piney River Brewing Company. It is operated by two of the most dynamic and enjoyable individuals I have had the pleasure to meet, Brian and Joleen Durham. The pair seem to maintain a schedule to promote their fine creations that couldn't possible allow sleep, yet they never seem less than impossibly energetic.
I was pleased to find this seasonal offering, Aux Arcs, a dry-hopped Saison.
All of the beers from Piney River tend to pay homage to Ozarks culture and history, often in some clever way. The label of Aux Arcs depicts the history of the region, and the etymology of its name.
Now, to the main point- the taste. Aux Arcs pours a cloudy amber with moderate head retention. The fruity, floral, spicy notes that a Saison tends to have are present in the aroma. This style can be a bit boring, in my opinion, but the fact that this one is dry-hopped makes all the difference.
As you can see from the picture, I am not terribly particular about glassware. I actually enjoy the dimensions of a mason jar. For this one, it helps to focus the hoppy aroma, making for a very enjoyable experience.
As the Aux Arcs drinks like a hoppy pale ale or lighter IPA, it would pair well with a wide variety of foods, and stands very well all on its own.
You will likely only run across this wonderful brewery's offerings if you are close to the Ozarks. I highly recommend their award-winning Old Tom Porter, Missouri Mule IPA, or any others you might find under the Piney River name.
Cheers!
Thom