Tank 7 alcohol percentage and what makes this saison stand out

Tank 7 alcohol percentage and what it means for your glass

Understanding the strength behind Tank 7’s pour

Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale is known for its bold character, and a big part of that reputation comes from its alcohol percentage. Pouring a glass of Tank 7 means you’re enjoying a saison with an ABV of 8.5%. This is notably higher than many traditional farmhouse ales, which often sit closer to 6% or 7% ABV. The elevated alcohol content gives Tank 7 a warming sensation and a fuller body, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate robust flavors.

• Why does this matter? The higher ABV brings out more intense fruity esters and spicy notes, which are hallmarks of the saison style.
• Serving tips: Because of its strength, Tank 7 is best enjoyed in a tulip glass, allowing you to savor its aroma and complexity sip by sip.
• Pairing ideas: Its boldness pairs well with rich cheeses, spicy dishes, or even grilled meats.

If you’re curious about how Tank 7’s alcohol content compares to other classic beer styles, you might enjoy reading about the charm of cask ale and how tradition shapes different drinking experiences.

How Tank 7’s brewing process shapes its character

Crafting complexity: the art behind Tank 7’s brewing

Tank 7’s unique character starts in the brewhouse, where traditional saison techniques meet modern innovation. The brewers at Boulevard Brewing Company use a carefully selected blend of malts and hops, but it’s their attention to detail during fermentation that truly sets this beer apart.

• Open fermentation: Tank 7 is fermented in open vessels, allowing the yeast to interact with the environment. This process encourages the development of fruity esters and spicy phenols, giving the beer its signature aroma and flavor.
• Yeast selection: The choice of yeast is crucial. Boulevard uses a Belgian-style yeast strain that brings out peppery, citrusy notes, enhancing the farmhouse ale profile.
• Dry hopping: After primary fermentation, Tank 7 is dry-hopped with American hops. This step adds layers of grapefruit and tropical fruit aromas, balancing the malt sweetness and high alcohol content.
• Water chemistry: The mineral content of the water is adjusted to mimic the soft water found in classic Belgian brewing regions, helping to round out the mouthfeel and accentuate the beer’s crisp finish.

If you’re interested in how other farmhouse ales achieve their depth and charm, take a look at this guide on bière de garde’s brewing secrets. Every step in Tank 7’s brewing process is designed to create a saison that’s both approachable and complex, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate layered, expressive beers.

Comparing Tank 7 to Belgian classics like Saison Dupont

How Tank 7 stacks up against Belgian farmhouse legends

When beer lovers think of classic saisons, Belgian icons like Saison Dupont often come to mind. Tank 7, brewed in Kansas City, takes inspiration from these European farmhouse ales but brings its own American twist. Let’s see how it compares to its Belgian counterparts:

• Alcohol content: Tank 7 boasts a higher alcohol percentage than most traditional Belgian saisons, which typically range from 6% to 7%. This gives Tank 7 a bolder presence in the glass and a slightly warming finish.
• Flavor profile: Both Tank 7 and Belgian classics share fruity esters and peppery spice from their yeast strains. However, Tank 7 leans into citrus and tropical hop notes, while Belgian saisons like Dupont focus more on earthy, herbal, and floral qualities.
• Body and mouthfeel: Tank 7 is known for its full, effervescent body, which stands up well to food pairings and makes it a memorable choice for saison fans. Belgian versions tend to be a touch lighter and drier, emphasizing drinkability.

For those who appreciate the unique character of Belgian saisons, exploring American interpretations like Tank 7 can be a rewarding experience. If you’re curious about other Belgian-inspired beers with their own twist, check out this article on why La Chouffe Blonde deserves a spot in your beer fridge.

The story behind Boulevard Brewing and its Kansas City roots

Boulevard Brewing: a Kansas City original

Boulevard Brewing Company is a name that resonates with craft beer fans, especially those who appreciate American interpretations of classic European styles. Founded in the heart of Kansas City, Boulevard quickly became a cornerstone of the Midwest’s brewing scene. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in every bottle, but perhaps nowhere more so than in their celebrated saison.

Crafting a legacy in the Midwest

What sets Boulevard apart is its deep connection to Kansas City’s culture and community. The brewery began with a vision to bring fresh, flavorful beer to the region, inspired by traditional Belgian and French farmhouse ales. Over the years, Boulevard has grown from a local favorite to a nationally recognized name, all while maintaining its roots and dedication to craftsmanship.

Innovation meets tradition

Boulevard’s approach blends time-honored brewing methods with a willingness to experiment. This balance is reflected in their saison, which combines classic yeast-driven character with a distinctly American hop profile. The brewery’s state-of-the-art facility allows for precise control over the brewing process, ensuring consistency and quality in every batch.

Impact on the American craft beer scene

The influence of Boulevard Brewing extends beyond Kansas City. Their saisons and other Belgian-inspired ales have helped shape the American craft beer landscape, inspiring countless brewers to explore and reinterpret traditional styles. For beer lovers, Boulevard represents both a link to brewing heritage and a beacon of creativity in the modern era.

Tasting Tank 7: what to expect from this farmhouse ale

Flavors and aromas in every sip

Pouring Tank 7 into your glass, you’ll notice its hazy golden color and lively effervescence. The aroma is immediately inviting, with notes of grapefruit, pepper, and a hint of earthy yeast. These scents are a direct result of the unique brewing process and the carefully selected yeast strain used by Boulevard Brewing.

On the palate, Tank 7 offers a complex blend of flavors. Expect bright citrus and tropical fruit up front, balanced by a gentle malt sweetness. The higher alcohol content gives the beer a warming sensation, but it remains surprisingly drinkable thanks to its dry finish and lively carbonation. Subtle herbal and spicy notes linger, making each sip interesting and refreshing.

Pairing suggestions for Tank 7

• Sharp cheeses like aged gouda or blue cheese
• Spicy dishes such as Thai curry or Mexican tacos
• Grilled chicken or seafood
• Fresh salads with citrus vinaigrette

Tank 7’s farmhouse ale character makes it versatile at the table, enhancing both simple and bold flavors. Its effervescence and dryness help cleanse the palate, making it a great companion for a variety of foods.

Serving tips to enjoy Tank 7

• Serve slightly chilled, around 45–50°F (7–10°C)
• Use a tulip or stemmed glass to concentrate the aromas
• Pour gently to preserve the beer’s natural carbonation

Taking the time to savor Tank 7 reveals why it stands out among American saisons and how its Kansas City roots and brewing tradition come together in every glass.