When your father was a young gentleman, he had two beer options: Bud or Bud Light. Today, a journey down the beer aisle(s) can induce indecision, frustration, and even paralysis of the brain. You could panic and default to that familiar light beer within arm’s reach. Stop. There is a better way.

Admittedly, summer complicates beer selection. While a beer too light will leave you unfulfilled, a beer too dark may cause something reminiscent of the milk scene from Anchorman: bad choices all around. The right beer on a hot July day, however, is a glorious, glorious thing. With temps on the rise and grill smoke in the air; enter the Saison.

Saison (sometimes called Farmhouse Ale) is French for “season.” Farmers in French speaking areas of Belgium brewed this beer during colder months for summer consumption. So straight away, this beer was invented for June, July and August. Saisons are typically known for fruity, spicy, hoppy, or highly carbonated characteristics but can vary widely, which lends to their appeal. Most all are bottle conditioned: yeast is added to the bottle and additional fermentation happens in the bottle. The beer’s flavor profile continues evolving as it waits for you to enjoy it. Saisons often pack a deceptive punch with ABVs in the 5-7% range. All this means refreshment and satisfaction even on a sweltering summer day.

By far, my favorite in the Saison category, and I’ve had many and it’s not close, is Boulevard’s Saison Brett. It is available now, but quantities are limited. If you miss this gem, its little brother Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale is a solid beer and available all year in 750ml champagne bottles or four-packs of 12-ounce bottles

This summer depart from the familiar and pick up something truly made for the season.