Jolly Pumpkin’s Baudelaire Series: Introducing iO Saison

Jolly Pumpkin’s Baudelaire Series – first introduced in 2010 – celebrates the deep, dark and often dangerous side of love, as a story of art and beer unfold. The series is created in the spirit of French poet Charles Pierre Baudelaire (1821-1867).

Widely-known as a controversial figure (much like his fellow writer, Edgar Allen Poe), Baudelaire’s name has become the epitome of literary and artistic debauchery. Through these distinctive beers, Jolly Pumpkin presents a liquid narrative, steeped in romantic tendencies – with just a hint of tragedy.

iO Saison is the latest release to capture the hearts of art and artisan beer lovers alike, following last year’s introduction Ale Absurd – a rye triple ale. Drawn in by the historic elegance of the label design and then held tight by the rapture of flavors, iO will be released in limited quantities, appropriately just in time for Valentine’s Day. She is brewed in a lovely fashion, with rose hips, rose petals and hibiscus. Yet, don’t be easily deceived by her looks, for like love – she can be oh so dangerous. Only 850 cases of iO (ABV 6.8%) are expected to be released. The 750ml bottles will be available nationwide to select wholesalers.

Ron Jeffries (aka Captain Spooky, General Mischief Maker, Chief Squeegee Operator and head of the Jolly Pumpkin Motley Brew Crew) exudes the pure essence of a modern-day brewmaster. He has garnered global recognition as the consummate creator of beers displaying the utmost in world-class art and grace, a philosopher of all things beery, and an outspoken advocate of the slower, finer life. Through these practices, Jeffries has honed his craft and is widely revered for his abilities to blend traditional brewing elements with the most unique complimentary ingredients. Some believe, there is no finer example of this than the Beaudelaire Series – which to some, embody true aphrodisiac qualities.

To open yourself up the true character of this beer, perhaps it is best to let the back label do the talking:

“Let’s face it. Beer is an art form that excites our sense and stirs our imagination. This truth gave Jolly Pumpkin an idea. We’d create a limited series of beers by throwing caution to the wind and following our creative muse no matter where it leads. This is how we discovered Baudelaire beer. A romantic world, dimly lit by distant memory, yet alive and inspiration to us pursue beauty at any cost. In the world of Baudelaire, label and beer come together in character and taste, influencing the drink to take upon the spirit of creativity and thin the veil between life and art. Let the muse guide you. ‘A breath of air from the wings of madness.’ – Charles Bauledaire.”

Forman’s artwork is reminiscent of what might be found in a Tim Burton movie – elegant with a hint of sinister etched deep within – much like the beauty that is iO. A long time friend of Jolly Pumpkin’s Ron & Laurie Jeffries, Foreman is a world-traveler and tattoo artist. His creative exploits have helped shape iO and Ale Absurd, giving them depth of character as the ambassadors of the Baudelaire Series.

The Jolly Pumpkin is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as the soon-to-be-released Civilized line of spirits. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. All of the beers and spirits under these brands are produced at either the new 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table restaurant (former Bowers Harbor Inn) or at the original Jolly Pumpkin brewing facility in Dexter.

Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

Jolly Pumpkin Brewing Company
www.JollyPumpkin.com