This is one of my favorite breweries. I suppose it is in part that the brewery’s location is close to where I grew up, but it’s mostly because they specialize in really good Belgian-style ales. As it says on my Ommegang glass, it is “Where brewing is an art and partaking is a passion.”
Brewery: Brewery Ommegang (Cooperstown, NY)
Name: Hennepin
Style: Belgian Ale (Saison)
ABV: 7.7%
Tasting Notes: Stored in the fridge and served in my Ommegang glass (almost a tulip)
Aroma: Not a huge aroma overall. Low hop nose with some citrus (orange) and a hint of spice (coriander?). Maybe even a faint floral note?
Appearance: Golden in color with a yellowish-orange tint. Very tall, white head with good retention (slow dissipation) that leaves some trail on the glass. Somewhat cloudy, but rising bubbles are still visible.
Flavor: Crisp citrusy hop flavor with some spice notes (seems to be ginger). Maybe a bit of light maltiness and yeast flavor present? Very slight bit of alcohol in background.
Mouthfeel: Medium body with a very enjoyable, smooth finish that doesn’t linger too long. Enough carbonation to feel it on your tongue.
Overall Impressions: There is quite a bit going on here that I cannot quite put into words (this was one of my early reviews). Very refreshing Belgian that is not too heavy. Gets better as it warms a bit. I could and would drink this beer everyday.
Grade: A to A+
Brewery Ommegang - Hennepin
Hennepin is awesome (my second favorite by Ommegang, after Three Philosophers.) It was my introduction to saisons. My husband and I wanted to drink good beer on our honeymoon so we packed one in our suitcase and drank it on the beach in Mexico.
Three Philosophers is my personal Ommegang favorite as well . . . though I will certainly not turn down a Hennepin if it is available! I have never thought of bringing my own beer with me on vacation (just in case), but I think I just might steal your idea in the future.