Steamworks Brewing Co.’s next Firkin Friday set for April 1 – The Belgian Saison to be tapped at 3 p.m. is no “April Fool’s”

 

DURANGO, Colo. – Though Firkin Friday at Steamworks Brewing Co. falls on Friday, April 1, 2011, the Belgian Saison firkin to be tapped at 3 p.m. is no “April Fool’s.”

Brewed with lavender and locally-produced honey from Honeyville, the Belgian Saison is a golden ale noted for its malty sweetness with a spicy and phenolic character provided by the Belgian yeast, according to Steamworks Head Brewer Ken Martin.

“The subtle flavor and aroma of the lavender flowers and honey are essentially in the background. The malt and yeast dominate this beer,” said Martin. “It’s a refreshing but complex beer to celebrate the arrival of spring.”

A firkin is an old English unit of volume, typically a wooden cask equal to approximately one-quarter of a regular barrel, or nine gallons. Steamworks initiated its Firkin Fridays last fall to introduce specialty craft beers not suited to large draft production. Unlike most draft beers, firkin beer is unpasteurized, unfiltered and naturally carbonated, or conditioned, it its cask. The yeast transforms the sugar into alcohol within the cask, and carbonation results from the trapped carbon dioxide occurring as a byproduct.

“Firkins, once tapped, are meant to be enjoyed,” said Spencer Roper, assistant brewer, noting that given the popularity of the specialty firkin beers, the contents of the casks are quickly consumed. “The Belgian Saison will be gravity-poured and served at approximately 55 degrees – cool, but not cold.”

Firkin Fridays are held at Steamworks Brewing Co. the first Friday of the month, and always feature a new specialty brew. On May 6, Steamworks will salute Cinco de Mayo with a chili, lime Mexican style lager – details to come.

The award-winning Steamworks Brewing Co., open 11 a.m. to closing seven days a week, is located at 801 E. Second. Ave., Durango (970.259.9200). For further information, visit www.steamworksbrewing.com.