Talking Head: The Great Decatur Beer Tasting Festival report

I woke up Saturday morning to overcast skies and wondered if this would be the first Decatur Beer Festival to not have perfect weather. But of course the clouds parted at 11:30, proving that God loves us and wants us to drink beer.

I pretty much did everything wrong for this festival: got there late, forgot my notebook and my camera, had no plan, socialized too much and missed a lot of tables. But eventually I decided not to be rushed and enjoy the beautiful day and all the delicious beer.

My favorite of the day would have to be the De Proef Saison Imperiale, a collaboration with Rob Tod from Allagash. It has a huge bouquet of flowers and honey, with a caramel malt body and tons of spice and fruit flavor. Pineapple, papaya, and green bananas are in there, along with coriander and ginger. Sweeter and stickier than a typical saison, it is unique and delicious. I also enjoyed the Full Sail Wassail, Weyerbacher Old Heathen Imperial Stout, and St. Peter’s Organic Ale.