Le Merle, Matilda and Pizza

We met up with friends at Parry’s Pizzeria and Bar last Sunday for a couple of pints and some pizza.  I was in the mood for some farmhouse ales and I ordered a couple of Belgian inspired ales.  First up, was North Coast Le Merle (7.9% ABV and 26 IBU) a Saison.  Saison is the French word for “season” and these beers were traditionally brewed in the winter to be consumed in the summer.  

Next up was Goose Island’s Matilda (7% ABV and 32 IBU) a Belgian Strong Pale Ale.  Both of these beers are very good and I would highly recommend either of them.  We had The Five Burroughs Pizza - pepperoni, sausage, bacon, mushrooms, green peppers, black olives, red onions - that paired very well with both beers.  We also had some stuffed mushrooms and fried mozzarella for appetizers.  The food was very good and we had the opportunity to celebrate our friend’s anniversary with some good friends - a nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Saison -  BeerAdvocate - http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/129
Belgian Strong Pale Ale - http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/55 - Beer Advocate

North Coast Brewing Co. - http://www.northcoastbrewing.com
Goose Island - http://www.gooseisland.com