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Saison vs Farmhouse Ale: What’s the Difference?

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If you’ve ever seen “saison” and “farmhouse ale” used almost interchangeably, you’re not alone. The two styles are closely related — but not exactly the same.


Let’s break it down so you can sip like a savvy beer explorer.


The Common Roots

Both saisons and farmhouse ales trace their roots to rural Belgium and northern France, where they were traditionally brewed by farmers during the cooler months and stored for consumption in the summer.


They used whatever ingredients were available—barley, wheat, spelt, herbs, hops—and fermented with rustic yeast strains. The result? Highly expressive, dry, refreshing beers that could vary wildly from batch to batch.


Saison: A Specific Style

Today, “saison” typically refers to a more defined beer style:

  • Color: Pale gold to light amber

  • Body: Light to medium

  • Flavor: Peppery, fruity (lemon, pear), earthy, dry finish

  • ABV: Usually 5–7.5%


How it’s made: Saison brewers often use Belgian saison yeast strains, known for producing spicy phenols and fruity esters. Saisons are fermented warm—sometimes as high as 85°F—to enhance yeast character. The grain bill is simple, and hops provide subtle bitterness.


Farmhouse Ale: A Broader Term

“Farmhouse ale” is an umbrella term that can include saison—but also:

  • Grisette (low-ABV miner’s beer)

  • Bière de garde (French farmhouse ale, maltier)

  • Rustic sour ales

  • Modern interpretations with local grains or wild yeast


Farmhouse ales tend to emphasize local terroir and experimental yeast/bacteria. They may be mixed-fermentation, barrel-aged, funky, or sour.


How to Spot Them

  • If it says “saison,” expect a dry, effervescent, yeast-driven beer.

  • If it says “farmhouse ale,” ask the bartender—it could be anything from crisp and peppery to tart and wild.


Explore the Farmhouse World

Farmhouse styles are perfect for beer drinkers who love complexity and nuance. Many NJ breweries are doing excellent work with saison yeast and farmhouse traditions.

Use your Craft & Brew Passport to explore this style family—and remember, these beers are great for warm-weather sipping!

 
 
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