Hill Farmstead — Flora 09/21/2018

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

The nose opens with delicate wild florals—elderflower and honeysuckle—layered over bright lemon zest and subtle farmyard funk. Twenty months in oak has coaxed out vanilla undertones and a whisper of oxidative complexity. On the palate, the beer unfolds with remarkable elegance: tart stone fruit meets peppery phenolics, while the barrel contributes gentle tannins and a roundness that softens the characteristic saison dryness. The finish is refreshingly dry and lengthy, with lingering white pepper spice, chamomile tea notes, and a faint barnyard earthiness that speaks to its extended maturation.

Food Pairing

Pair with farmstead cheeses—particularly aged Vermont cheddar or bloomy-rind varieties—where the beer’s acidity cuts through richness while the barrel aging complements nutty, developed flavors. Equally stunning alongside roasted chicken with herbs de Provence, as the peppery phenolics and floral notes echo the herbal seasoning while the bright acidity refreshes the palate.

About Hill Farmstead Brewery

Hill Farmstead Brewery was established in 2010 by Shaun Hill in Greensboro Bend, Vermont, nestled in the remote Northeast Kingdom region approximately seventy miles from Burlington. Hill’s brewing journey began with a high school science fair project and evolved through professional experience at Denmark’s Fanø Bryghus and Nørrebro Bryghus before he returned to his family’s farmstead to create one of the world’s most celebrated craft breweries.

The brewery has achieved remarkable acclaim for its uncompromising approach to brewing across multiple styles, with particular distinction in American Pale Ales, IPAs, Porters, and Saisons. This dedication to quality has earned Hill Farmstead an extraordinary record of recognition from the global beer community. RateBeer named it Best New Brewery in the World in 2011, followed by the prestigious title of Best Brewery in the World in 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020, with a second-place finish in 2013. This sustained excellence reflects Hill Farmstead’s commitment to traditional brewing methods and thoughtful innovation, making it a pilgrimage destination for serious beer enthusiasts worldwide.

Explore & Learn

US Craft Beer — Learn before you buy

• Top 10 Best US Craft Beers in Switzerland
  Our expert selection from allocation-only breweries
• Browse all US craft beer
  Anchorage, Horus, Goose Island BBT, Hill Farmstead & more