Ago Ciliegia

During each of our past invitational events our Brewmaster, Matt Brynildson, has collaborated with brewer friends to produce a unique beer, which is served at the following year’s Invitational. In June of 2014 Matt teamed up with Italian craft beer pioneer Agostino Arioli, owner/brewmaster of Birrificio Italian0, Italy, to create a dark saison. It was sent to Buellton for the “Barrelworks treatment.” Sichuan peppercorns were added contributing a lively sensation, and matured 12 months in French oak barrels. We weren’t finished. Finally, as the pièce de résistance, we flavored it with cherries and called it Ago-Ciliegia. Immediately, black pepper and cherry aromas mingle with an earthy funk, spicy yeast notes, toasted oak, vanilla and hints of tangerine and raisin. Add a mouth-watering acidity and we have one complex and delicious beverage.