Brasserie Fantôme - Skrip's Big Brew

The Fantôme Skrip’s Big Brew was crafted in collaboration with adventurous New Jersey-based brewing company Phresh Phlavors along with Dany’s friend Nick Sarlo, known as Skrip. This attractive saison pours a rich copper red, with a noticeable chill haze and a nice amber head, which it retains well, leaving a trace of lacing with every sip. It’s a gorgeous looking beer that would liven up any picnic or meal outside in the sunshine.

This one comes through as a classic Belgian Saison nose, with fruity esters, clove, and coriander notes that mix with the assertive cayenne aroma we were promised, all backed by pale malt elements. As it comes up to the higher end of the serving temperature range, subtle strawberry notes present themselves that never become too sweet or cloying.

The first sip brings the cayenne heat, a heat that lasts through the sip and into the finish. It’s definitely a spice heat, as opposed to an alcohol burn. Beyond that, the Belgian elements from the nose are very much present in the tasting. Fruity esters, herbal notes, and strawberry, while subtle, balance perfectly. The cayenne is present from start to finish, aligning with the bracing dryness at the tail end. And be aware, there is no sweetness despite the strawberry note; this one is dry and tart.

In our tasting of the Skrip’s Big Brew, we described it as “sour adjacent”. It’s a Saison for sure, but there’s definitely a lactic acidity present that makes it a wonderful springtime beer.

Enjoy this one now or mature it for up to two years – but keep an eye on it. We’re inclined to enjoy it more sooner than later since it’s drinking really well now. Pair it with a spicy arugula salad with fresh mozzarella and balsamic dressing, ceviche, or even fish tacos!

Nestled about an hour south of Liège, within the enchanting Ardennes Forest, lies the quaint village of Soy, home to some of Belgium's most fascinating beers. This picturesque locale is the proud residence of Brasserie Fantôme, led by the passionate Dany Prignon. While Fantôme’s brews enjoy a devoted following in both the U.S. and Europe, they remain a hidden gem within Belgium itself. At Brasserie Fantôme, brewing is an art of innovation, highlighted by their adventurous use of spices, herbs, fruits, vegetables, and flowers to craft their unique Saisons. These unexpected combinations give Fantôme beers their signature character and flavor. The brewery is committed to sourcing ingredients locally, and their recipes evolve constantly, ensuring each year delivers something new and delightful for even the most discerning beer enthusiasts.

Founded in 1988 by Dany Prignon, Fantôme is a testament to the boundless creativity that defines Belgian brewing. The brewery’s “ghost” logo is inspired by a local legend from the nearby town of La Roche-en-Ardenne, where the haunting tale of Countess Berthe de la Roche, said to wander the castle ruins, has been passed down for generations.

A visit to Fantôme’s small but efficient 6.5-barrel brewing system, largely built from equipment originally used at Brasserie d’Achouffe, leaves a lasting impression. Dany and his dedicated team hand-bottle each brew using a somewhat old-school apparatus, with every beer housed in 750ml bottles sealed with both cork and cap, or in draft kegs ready to be tapped. The brewery’s production schedule is determined by the inspiration of its master brewer, with batches brewed once or twice a week when the creative spark strikes.

Fantôme is also known for its limited-edition and special brews, created based on Dany’s inventive ideas and the availability of seasonal ingredients. To learn more about the brewery, brush up on your French and visit www.fantome.be.