The Commons Brewery Petit Classique is described as a table saison with pink peppercorns. I assume designation of it being a “table saison” has something to do with the low ABV of 4.1%. The pink peppercorn is an interesting flavor as well. The low ABV and presumed drinkability are attractive attributes in my book. Sometimes I want something that won’t get me gooned, but still has some flavor.
This beer came as part of my Tavour Holiday Gift Box (12/9 is the last day to order! get the details here). I don’t normally seek out saisons, so this one was a bit out of my comfort zone. I received the Seasonal and Special Gift Box and it contained a few Belgians and saisons there promise to test my enjoyment levels. I have never been big on saisons, but I have been coming around on some Belgian offerings.
The Commons Brewery started in a garage and expanded to a commercial space in the summer of 2011. Located in Portland, Oregon, The Commons Brewery describes itself as a true nano brewery and has a staff of three people. I can’t seem to find much more info than that. In fact they don’t even list the Petit Classique on their website.
The Commons Brewery Petit Classique
Style: Saison
ABV: 4.1%
IBU: ?
Hops: ?
Availability: ?
MSRP: $9.99 750 ml bottle
Brewer: The Commons Brewing – Portland, OR
Beers consumed for review: 1 – 750 ml bottle
Beer was included in the Tavour Holiday Gift Box
Nose: The aroma was packed with notes of spicy Belgian yeast, lemony citrus and that earthy “saison funk.” Said funk turned out to be much more noticeable in the aroma than it was on the tongue.
Appearance: As you can see it the photos, The Commons Brewery Petit Classique was a hazy, golden beer. It poured with two good inches of foamy white head. The head settled in around a half inch or so.
Flavor: This is a very drinkable beer. I totally get why they called it a table saison. Notes of yeast and lemon were present up front with a mild spice on the finish. The mouthfeel was slightly creamy with a crisp finish. Like I said before, I am not a big saison guy. With that said, I really liked the Commons Brewery Petit Classique. That saison funk was minimal and the citrus notes were very refreshing.
Overall Thoughts: I ended up watching a movie with the wife and drinking the entire bottle myself. Not only that, but I found myself wanting more when the bottle was empty. Sadly it looks like this beer is no longer in production, but I will be on the look out for something similar. I also wouldn’t hesitate to try other offerings from The Commons.
3 comments
Tank 7 made me appreciate the saison style, but it’s still not something I seek out regularly (it’s probably the funk).
that funk will get ya… i’m coming around on it though… this was like a saison with training wheels… a nice intro to get you used to the flavors… i dug it… thanks Jared!