Our “Harbinger” of spring has arrived: a crisp, effervescent, Belgian-style saison. Last spring we began the tradition of brewing Harbinger Saison at Sixpoint, and it’s back and on draft now. With notes of pepper, citrus and honey, we couldn’t wait to make this spring seasonal again.

We might have had an unexpectedly spring-like winter in New York, where it was fifty degrees in the brewery while Harbinger was being made. But this beer is a sure sign of a changing of the guards.

“It’s only fitting that it’s available a bit early; with warm thoughts and tall, opaque tankards of this frothy, tart, spicy ale we will see this winter done,” said Headbrewer Ian McConnell.

Brewed with a combination of German Heidelburger and Carahell malts, Vienna malt and Canadian white wheat malt, the Saison is finished with American Columbus and Northern Brewer hops for a non-traditional twist. The complex flavor is tart and spicy to start, with a bready, sweet aftertaste and grassy hops that kick in for a balance of bitterness. The color is pale golden, with a thick, bubbly head. We enjoy the tartness of Harbinger paired with light-tasting spring vegetables and mild cheese. 4.9% ABV, 35 IBU.

Have a toast to the new season at your favorite pub soon!