July Brew Planning - SMaSH Saison (Summer Beer #4)

My goal for 2013 has been to brew a 5 gal. batch of beer per month.  So far I have met this goal and July doesn't look like it will be any different.  At the bottom, I will post the list of beers I've brewed so far this year.  Over time I hope to post tasting notes and recipes for each beer.

My beer of the month for July is going to be a SMaSH beer.  Otherwise known as a "Single Malt and Single Hop" brew.  This simplistic style of brewing is just as it sounds...simple.  One malt to mash and one hop to throw in during the boil (of course at differing times for differing effects).

Here's the "rub"...just because it's a single malt and single hop doesn't mean that I'm locked into one "style" of beer.  I could do anything and frankly, most homebrewers choose the ever popular IPA style to brew as a SMaSH beer.  I THINK, I've chosen to go with a saison or a "farmhouse ale" style.

This beer will be extremely simple in body with pilsner malt and I will likely hop with a saaz or similar variety which, combined, will create a simple palate for which the traditional Belgian saison-style yeast may shine.

I love Saison beers and have always wanted to brew one...now is the perfect excuse because it really is a simple beer to brew and this brewing method will allow the yeast to be the focal point.  I'm right on the cusp of this being "on time" as a seasonal as well since it looks as if the beer should be finished right around the first week of August.

I will obviously update...that's what this blog is all about.

Have you brewed a SMaSH before?  If so, what was the style and results?

As promised...my 2013 Brewing Calendar so far:
Jan -  Porter / Vanilla Scotch Porter
Feb - Barrister's India Red Ale
Mar - Oktoberfest (currently aging)
Apr - Proud Parent Pale (Kolsch)
May - Lemon Weiss
Jun - Apricot Pale Ale
Jul - SMaSH Saison