Brasserie de Blaugies + Hill Farmstead
La Vermontoise.
In the quiet corners of the brewing world, there are collaborations that are more than just a blend of ingredients; they are a conversation between artists and friends. The story of La Vermontoise is just such an exchange, a transatlantic handshake between two of the most revered names in farmhouse brewing: Brasserie de Blaugies and Hill Farmstead. Blaugies, a small family-owned operation in the tiny village of Blaugies, Belgium, is a beacon of rustic authenticity, its ales a timeless expression of yeast-driven character. Hill Farmstead, nestled in the remote hills of Vermont, is a modern visionary, a brewery whose ethos of terroir has redefined what is possible in the new world of craft. This collaboration was a meeting of legends, an old-world tradition embracing a new-world philosophy.
La Vermontoise is a beer that truly embodies this cross-continental dialogue. A traditional Belgian Saison at its heart, it was brewed in the old-world brewhouse of Blaugies but with a touch of Vermont's soul—a tribute to Hill Farmstead's own farmhouse-inspired creations. The beer pours a hazy, straw-like gold with a beautiful, effervescent foam that rises like champagne. As it settles, a complex tapestry of aromas emerges: a delightful mix of peppery spice, tart lemon zest, and a subtle, earthy funk that whispers of its rustic, farmhouse origins.
On the palate, the experience is a revelation of elegance and drinkability. It is bone dry and crisp, with a lively carbonation that carries flavors of cracked pepper, herbal notes, and a gentle citrus zest. The elegance of this beer lies in its sublime balance; it is neither overly spicy nor overly sour, but a perfect harmony of a classic Belgian yeast profile and the clean, nuanced character that is the signature of a Hill Farmstead ale. La Vermontoise is a testament to what happens when tradition meets innovation, a beer that proves that the pursuit of simple perfection transcends borders. It is a true collaboration, a beer that celebrates two distinct philosophies uniting to create something truly extraordinary.