Photo by Goose Island Beer Co.

I enjoy beer as much as wine. There, I’ve said it. I’m Canadian, it’s in my blood. Having said that, this is the first beer I’ve felt the urgency to formally review. It’s likely my favorite beer of 2012.

I love Goose Island beers and what first attracted me to Sofie is that it’s boasted as the “champagne drinker’s beer”. I love Champagne, I love beer – how could I not love this brew? The answer is – I adore this Saison-style beer.

Sofie is fermented in wine barrels with citrus peel and that’s evident after the first sip. The flavors are citrusy with pleasant effervescence and peppery vanilla notes on the finish.

Brewed by:  Goose Island Beer Co., Illinois, USA

Style: Saison, Belgian Style Farmhouse Ale

Alcohol by Volume: 6.5%

Color in the Glass: Cloudy golden with greenish hues, creamy-white head

International Bitterness Units: 25

Malt: Pilsner, Wheat

Hops: Amarillo

Format(s): Bottle, on-tap

Ideal Glass: Wide-mouth glass, tulip