Beer Review: Sante Adairius Rustic Ales – Bended Note
ABV: 8.4%
Pairing: Enjoyed from a stemmed tulip-shaped glass, as pictured.
Sante Adairius Rustic Ales (SARA) of Capitola, CA, has established a reputation as one of the preeminent producers of complex, barrel-aged wild and sour ales. Bended Note is a specific expression of their prowess: a saison blended and aged in French oak puncheons that previously held Frederiksdal Cherry Wine from Denmark. Given the barrels’ unique origin, expectations were high for a structured, profoundly fruity experience.
Appearance:
Bended Note is visually stunning. It pours a deep, radiant crimson-cherry color, looking more like a dark, concentrated wine than a typical beer. It boasts brilliant clarity and is capped by a lively, fine-bubbled head of pink foam that slowly recedes, leaving a beautiful collar.
Aroma:
The nose is instantly complex and highly layered. It leads with dominant notes of focused, tart Montmorency cherries—both fresh and slightly cooked. Following closely is a distinct earthy and funky SARA Brettanomyces profile, accompanied by subtle nuances of damp oak and old-world red wine. There’s a faint hint of sweet vanilla from the oak puncheons that grounds the acidity.
Flavor:
The first sip is electric and focused. It hits with a bright, clean, natural acidity that immediately reveals the cherry influence. This is not just cherry flavor; it’s an integrated expression of both the fruit and the barrel. The Frederiksdal barrels seem to introduce a specific rich, almost velvety, fortified wine character, contrasting with the dry, slightly botanical notes of the grisette base. Mid-palate, notes of cherry pie, marzipan, and wet oak emerge, balanced by a sharp, slightly woody bitterness. It is deeply structured.
Mouthfeel:
This is a sophisticated mouthfeel. The carbonation is lively and effervescent. Despite its 8.4% ABV and the rich barrel origin, it drinks exceptionally light and crisp. The finish is bone-dry and slightly tannic, characteristic of high-quality, long-form barrel aging.
SARA’s Bended Note is an absolute triumph. It represents a flawless blending of styles and cultures: Californian wild yeast, Danish cherry wine tradition, and rustic French oak. The integration of the cherry wine punchons is precise; they provide incredible structure and fruit depth without overpowering the delicate grisette. It is simultaneously complex, focused, and utterly refreshing. If you can find a bottle, do not hesitate. This is a must-try for any fan of wild or cherry ales.