• Andy Hagemann
• On December 11, 2013

The holidays are the time of year we associate most with family and home. Unfortunately, I’m on the opposite side of the country as my family (I’m in Oregon, they’re in Virginia). But that doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy a little flavor from my hometown. Hardywood Park Craft Brewery is one of the highlights of my visits back to Richmond, VA. Their standard beers are delicious, but their Reserve Series beers are to die for. This time of year, I SHOULD be reviewing their Gingerbread Stout, which Beer Advocate rated a perfect 100. But it’s kind of hard to find out here… Soooo, I get to review one of their other fantastic beers I brought back from my last venture back East. The Saison Rustica is definitely more of a summer brew; however, I can’t help but enjoy its deliciousness as it brings back a nostalgia for summertime. It pours a clear, light honey color with a medium amount of carbonation, really just the perfect effervescence for a refreshing style of beer. The aroma radiates Belgian spiciness, and the flavor is pleasant citrus with a noticeable lemongrass component. There is definitely some peppery spiciness on the palate, but it levels nicely with the citrus to create a balanced saison that is light and flavorful. 20 IBUs and an ABV of 4.5% make it a great everyday beer, ready to be enjoyed Summer or Winter! Cheers!