I recently made a trip to visit some friends in Atlanta and I was able to pick up some great beer from the state of Georgia. Over the next month I will be reviewing my loot, so here is week 2! Checkout week 1 HERE.

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Atalanta - Tart Plum Saison

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I must admit something right off the bat. Recently I have become obsessed with farmhouse style ales. Also known as saisons, these traditional Belgian brews were primarily used to hydrate farm workers during the hot summer harvest. Saison actually means ‘season’ in French, and these ales are light and crisp but very flavorful. They first appeared in the Wallonia region of Belgium, which is in the southern part of the country nearest France. As do many beers in the area, saisons are very similar to white wines – high in carbonation, dry, and fruity. This style was also historically brewed using open fermentation, creating funky and woody notes and a spicy yeast character.

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Right in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia's Orpheus Brewing is specializing in farmhouse and sour ales. They have a tasty saison of their own, called Atalanta. This ale is brewed with plums that add a fruity and sweet character to the spicy yeast notes. There is also a tartness that you don’t find in most other saisons, something I find intriguing and delicious. Finally, there is a malty and buttery finish that brings everything together in a great balance. Atalanta is 5.2% ABV and can be found year round in the Atlanta area in 12oz cans.

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Orpheus Brewing just celebrated their 2 year anniversary, and I suspect you will be hearing more and more of them as time goes on. Sour and wild beers are quickly gaining popularity and Orpheus is certainly helping that. When in Atlanta they are a must try. And I also hope you give farmhouse ales a chance this summer, you will not regret it!

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Other Tasty Saisons: