Saison Chardonnay

The portrait

La Nébuleuse's Saison Chardonnay represents a bold exploration at the crossroads of the brewing and winemaking worlds. This Belgian-inspired farmhouse ale has been aged for 14 months in Chardonnay barrels, a patient process that gives it a rare complexity and a distinctive personality.

On the nose, vinous aromas dominate, with characteristic notes of Chardonnay oak. On the palate, the beer reveals a dry and slightly tart profile, where white wine flavors blend harmoniously with the saison base. The dry finish is punctuated by subtle woody notes, a testament to its extended aging in the barrel. The oak flavors impart a fruity dimension that balances the whole, creating a tasting experience that is both refreshing and sophisticated.

Served from the cask, Saison Chardonnay has a discreet, almost non-existent effervescence, which enhances its vinous character and allows the complex flavors to fully express themselves.

History & Innovation

This creation is part of a tradition of exploring barrel aging techniques, a territory where the boundaries between beer and wine become porous.

The use of barrels that previously held Chardonnay is not insignificant: it allows the beer to develop oenological characteristics while retaining its seasonal identity. The 14-month aging process demonstrates the brewery's patience and commitment to quality, a duration that allows for optimal extraction of aromas from the wood and harmonious maturation.

This beer was mainly served on tap at L'Atalante and Brussels Beer Project during the summer of 2018 and 2019, where it was appreciated for its ability to refresh on hot summer days while offering a complexity worthy of contemplative tasting.

Food and beer pairings

The Saison Chardonnay, with its dry, vinous and slightly oaky profile, pairs naturally with a wide variety of sophisticated dishes:

Cheeses : Hard cheeses like young Comté or Gruyère find an ideal partner in this beer. The Saison's acidity and dryness echo the fruity notes of these cheeses, while the Chardonnay aromas create a harmonious bridge. A platter of fresh or semi-aged goat cheeses is also an excellent choice.

Seafood and fish : Like a dry white wine, this vintage pairs wonderfully with oysters, grilled or poached salmon, and shellfish. Its freshness and vinous character cleanse the palate without overpowering the delicate flavors of the sea.

Poultry and white meats : A roast chicken with herbs or a veal escalope with cream find in this beer a refined accompaniment that brings lightness while supporting the flavors.

Vegetarian dishes : Mixed salads with grilled vegetables, mushroom risottos or light quiches harmonize perfectly with the dry and complex profile of this season.

The final word

Saison Chardonnay remains in the memories of enthusiasts as a unique creation that pushed the boundaries of the saison style. Although this beer is no longer regularly produced, it exemplifies the spirit of innovation and experimentation that has driven La Nébuleuse since its inception.

For those lucky enough to have tasted it during those past summers, it remains a cherished memory of a beer that was both refreshing and contemplative, rustic and elegant. A legacy that continues to inspire the brewery's current creations.

Cheers! 🍻

The recipe