Rating: 4.5/5
Boulevard’s Tank 7 is one of those beers that craft enthusiasts love to rave about, and for good reason. It’s a saison with some serious personality—packed with fruity and spicy flavors, but with enough balance to keep it drinkable and refreshing. Boulevard Brewing Co. really nailed it with this one, especially if you’re a fan of farmhouse ales. That said, Tank 7 isn’t for everyone. It’s bold, a bit complex, and definitely not a “sit back and forget about it” kind of beer. But if you’re up for something a little different, this one is well worth the ride.
First Impressions
Pouring Tank 7 gives you a beautiful golden-orange color with a nice hazy glow, which is pretty classic for the saison style. The head is huge, white, and fluffy—honestly, you could admire it for a while before even taking your first sip. Carbonation is lively, which gets you excited for the refreshing punch that’s coming. It looks like a bright, summery beer in the glass.
Aroma
Right off the bat, you’re hit with a mix of fruity esters and earthy spice. There’s a burst of citrus—think lemon zest and grapefruit—along with some subtle floral notes. You also get those signature saison aromas like clove, pepper, and a hint of bubblegum, all blended together in a way that feels fresh and inviting. It smells complex but approachable, and it gets your palate ready for something exciting.
Taste
This is where Tank 7 really shines. The first sip is a full-on flavor explosion. You immediately notice the fruity notes: a blend of grapefruit, lemon, and maybe even a little tropical fruit like mango. But it’s not overly sweet—there’s a dry, peppery bite that balances everything out. The yeast character brings in those spicy, farmhouse-style notes, with clove and black pepper coming through, giving it a slightly earthy, rustic vibe.
The alcohol is also noticeable (it clocks in at 8.5% ABV), but it’s well integrated. You can taste a slight boozy warmth in the background, but it doesn’t overwhelm the other flavors. The hop bitterness is there too, more pronounced than in some other saisons, but it works—providing a crisp, clean finish that keeps you wanting another sip.
Negatives?
If there’s a downside, it’s that Tank 7 might be a bit much for some people. The higher ABV and bold flavors can feel a bit intense, especially if you’re not used to saisons or farmhouse ales. It’s also not the most subtle beer out there—if you prefer something more restrained or easy-drinking, Tank 7 might come across as a little heavy-handed.
Mouthfeel and Finish
The mouthfeel is one of the highlights of Tank 7. It’s got a light-to-medium body with plenty of carbonation, which keeps the beer lively and refreshing despite its higher alcohol content. The finish is crisp and dry, with just a touch of lingering spice and bitterness. There’s a nice balance between the fruity, yeasty flavors and the hops, so even though the beer packs a punch, it never feels cloying or heavy.
Positives
- Big, Bold Flavors: Tank 7 delivers an impressive range of flavors, from fruity citrus to spicy pepper. It’s complex, but everything works together beautifully.
- Fantastic Mouthfeel: The carbonation and crisp finish make it surprisingly refreshing for a beer with this much going on.
- Perfect for Saison Lovers: If you’re a fan of farmhouse ales or Belgian-style beers, Tank 7 hits all the right notes with its yeast-driven complexity and balance of spice and hops.
Negatives
- Not for Everyone: The high ABV and bold flavors might be too intense for some drinkers, especially those who are new to the saison style.
- A Little Heavy for Summer: While Tank 7 is refreshing, it’s still 8.5% ABV, which makes it a bit heavier than other summer-friendly beers. If you’re looking for something super light and crushable, this might feel a little too strong.
Final Thoughts
Boulevard’s Tank 7 is a standout saison that deserves all the praise it gets. It’s bold, flavorful, and strikes a great balance between fruity, spicy, and hoppy elements. Whether you’re already a fan of farmhouse ales or just looking to expand your palate, this beer is a must-try. It’s got enough complexity to keep seasoned craft beer lovers happy, but it’s also approachable enough for newcomers to enjoy (as long as they’re ready for something a little adventurous).
While it might not be the best choice if you’re in the mood for something light and easy-drinking, Tank 7 is a perfect option when you want a beer with depth and character. Grab one, pour it into a proper glass, and take your time savoring everything it has to offer.
If you’ve tried a Tank 7, please let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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