Norse Smackdown Saison

One of Norway’s most prominent brewmasters from Nøgne Ø joined forces with the brewmaster from Shanghai, China’s leading craft brewing innovator Boxing Cat Brewery to brew the Norse Smackdown Saison, a collaboration brew that would further introduce Nøgne Ø beer to the Chinese market.

Kjetil Jikiun (Nøgne Ø) and Michael Jordan (Boxing Cat Brewery) came together to brew the Norse Smackdown Saison when Jikiun arrived in Shanghai from Norway to support the market during Shanghai Beer Week 2014 – China’s original craft beer festival (May 23-June 1).  The two have maintained a friendly relationship since Nøgne Ø beers began being distributed in Shanghai in late 2013 through Cheers In, a French-owned beer boutique through which the new gastropub Liquid Laundry has been receiving their featuring Nøgne Ø Imperial Brown Ale.

The Norse Smackdown Saison is the collision of Norwegian Juniper Berries and Chinese Chrysanthemum Tea, both perfect for a Saison-style beer that is full of esters and aroma from Saison yeast. The beer has a hint of Rye to give the beer a slightly spicy note.

Two types of hops have been used for the Norse Smackdown Saison – the Nelson Sauvin from New Zealand, which have a wine/berry quality to complement the Juniper Berries, and the Sorachi Ace, which has a distinct lemon note with a slight cedar note.

The result is the refreshing golden ale with subtle spice character with lemon, berry and floral notes.

The Norse Smackdown Saison began pouring at Boxing Cat Brewery and Liquid Laundry on Wednesday, June 25, and will continue to pour until mid-July.

Press release from Boxing Cat Brewery:

Joyce Cha, Marketing & PR Officer Boxing Cat Brewery

info@boxingcatbrewery.com

Shanghai, China. June 27, 2014