Boulevard Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale
1 log on Brewskipotatoes
Tasting Notes
Tank 7 opens with a pronounced burst of grapefruit and citrus zest on the nose, backed by earthy, slightly spicy yeast character and a faint herbal note. On the palate it's fuller-bodied than most saisons, with stone fruit and a bready malt core that the yeast-driven spice cuts through cleanly. The higher ABV for the style gives it a warming quality without feeling boozy. The finish is dry and moderately bitter, lingering with a peppery yeast snap.
About the Brewery
Boulevard Brewing is based in Kansas City, Missouri, and has been operating since 1989, making it one of the larger craft breweries in the Midwest. They're best known for their Unfiltered Wheat and the Smokestack Series, a lineup of more adventurous, higher-gravity offerings of which Tank 7 is arguably the flagship. The brewery has significant regional distribution and is widely credited with anchoring Kansas City's craft beer identity.
Food Pairings
Mussels steamed in white wine work well because the dry, carbonated finish scrubs through the briny richness. A roast chicken with herbs mirrors the beer's earthy, spicy yeast notes without competing. Aged goat cheese pairs naturally since its tangy acidity aligns with the farmhouse character. Spiced Thai dishes benefit from the beer's dryness cutting through coconut-based sauces. A charcuterie spread of cured meats and grain mustard plays off the peppery finish and bready malt center.
Style Guide
Saison, sometimes called Farmhouse Ale, originated in the French-speaking Wallonia region of Belgium, historically brewed in winter to be consumed by seasonal farm workers through the warmer months. The style is defined by highly expressive yeast character — think fruity esters, peppery phenols, and pronounced carbonation — alongside a dry, attenuated finish that keeps the body from feeling heavy despite often substantial ABV. Tank 7 sits at the stronger end of the spectrum; typical saisons range from around 5% to 8%, with big examples pushing beyond. Compared to a Belgian witbier, saison is drier, spicier, and less reliant on wheat or added spices like coriander.