Upright Five
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Tasting Notes
The nose offers lemon zest, white pepper, and a faint earthiness that hints at the farmhouse tradition. On the palate, there's a dry, grainy wheat character with light fruit — think green apple and pear — alongside the spicy phenolic note that Belgian yeast strains contribute. The body is lean and moderately carbonated, which keeps things honest without feeling thin. The finish is dry and slightly herbal, the kind of clean close that makes you reach for another sip without knowing quite why.
About the Brewery
Upright Brewing is based in Portland, Oregon, and has been operating since 2009. The brewery built its reputation around farmhouse and mixed-fermentation ales, naming its core lineup after musical notes — Five, Six, Seven — as a reference to jazz composer Charles Mingus. They're regarded as one of the more thoughtful producers of Belgian-influenced beer in the Pacific Northwest, with an approach that favors restraint and complexity over spectacle.
Food Pairings
Mussels steamed with white wine and shallots work well because the beer's dry, peppery finish mirrors the brine and aromatics in the broth. A simple roast chicken brings out the subtle fruit and herbal qualities without overwhelming either. Aged chèvre or a mild washed-rind cheese pairs naturally because the farmhouse yeast character bridges the gap between beer and funk. Grilled asparagus or spring vegetables lean into the saison's earthy, green notes in a way heavier beers can't match.
Style Guide
Saison originated in the Wallonia region of Belgium, historically brewed in winter for farm workers to drink during the warmer months. The style is defined by its dry finish, high attenuation, and the spicy, fruity, sometimes funky character produced by specific Belgian yeast strains — phenols and esters rather than hops drive the flavor profile. Body is typically light to medium, and bitterness is restrained. It distinguishes itself from witbier by lacking wheat's haze and tartness, and from Belgian tripel by sitting at a more modest ABV and emphasizing dryness over sweetness.