Good Harbor Golden
Leelanau's Golden Ale.

A Franco-Belgian inspired bière de garde by Leelanau Brewing.
A Bière de Garde style golden

*Not exactly fitting this profile of 'bière de Garde', it can be classified better as a Michigan Bière de Garde or Leelanau Bière de Garde.

Inspired by Franco-Belgian bière de gardes, but not exactly fitting the profile of its European counterparts, this beer is best described as a Michigan Bière de Garde. Hand-crafted by Ron Jeffries at his Jolly Pumpkin Brewery in Dexter, which is consistantly rated as one of one of the best in the world, all of the  Leelanau Brewing Company beers are distingushed by their time spent in a large French oak barrique prior to bottling and re-fermentation. The wild yeasts inhabiting the brewery give all the beers made there a common thread, creating a family of beverages with rare harmony, despite their diverse styles.

Decidedly refreshing despite the 7.5% abv, this style of beer was originally brewed in the slow winter season as payment for farmhands in the summer. We certainly don't mind sitting down after a long day of work and breathing deep the symphony aromas wafting from the lofty, lacey head burgeoning from our tulip glass. Subtle notes of peaches, apricots, canned pineapple, bitters, and a faint herbaceousness belie the smooth and delicate taste. The slightly malty, fruity body quickly transitions effortlessly to a crisp, dry and somewhat tart finish. Signature hints of French oak and the complex yeast character place this all-natural beer among the best saisons, stock ales, and farmhouse styles of Michigan, France & Belgium. 

With the name literally meaning ‘beer for keeping', one can correctly assume that it will benefit from extended cellaring; and since it is spontaneously fermented and naturally bottle conditioned, this living beer will change in somewhat unpredictable, but always delightful ways. You'll thank yourself later if you hide a few away.

Good Harbor Golden pairs well with a variety of foods, and shines next to anything from the classic French culinary repertoire. Cassoulet, rack of lamb, and roast poultry dishes are some of our favorites, though grilled sausages, curry dishes, and hearty whole-grain mustards are also solid partners. Ripe, washed-rind cheeses are a must. 

*750ml Good Harbor Golden: Open with caution as you would fine Champagne- Click here for opening/pouring suggestions.

"In the elder days of art
builders wrought with the greatest care each minute and unseen part for the gods are everywhere."

-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

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