Should I have a Monday Night Father Figure Black Saison? I was on the fence. I was at Taco Mac on this Thursday night and already had enjoyed a few beers, but I was near the bottom of my current glass and wanted one more. Father Figure sounded enticing, a black saison aged in bourbon barrels.

The sticking point was the price, $10 seemed a bit steep for an 11-ounce glass. Still and all, I decided to throw fiscal caution to the wind and ordered a glass. I really like Atlanta’s Monday Night after all, and it was August 30th, the 11th anniversary of the passing of beer legend Michael Jackson. I would toast his memory with a Monday Night Father Figure Black Saison, then.

Monday Night says:

We aged this saison in second use bourbon barrels for almost two years, over time turning it into something truly unique. Father Figure is a beer that demands your respect. From humble beginnings as a saison comes a dark, barrel-aged ale exhibiting a mosaic of flavors. Oak and vanilla notes work alongside toasty, dark chocolate undertones. A 7.0% ABV props up these bold flavors well, resulting in a beer you are unlikely to forget. Pair Father Figure with a caramel dessert, or split this bottle with dad.

If you can’t find it on tap, Total Wine sells this beer for $11.99 the half liter bottle.

My glass of Monday Night Father Figure Black Saison arrived jet black in color with a tight cap of creamy tan foam and dark malts and boozy bourbon in the nose. A sip reveals smooth dark malt, a full body, soft chocolate, licorice spice, boozy bourbon notes, and a spicy dry saison finish. Subtle vanilla and oak poke through. The beer seems stronger than its 7% ABV.

This was very tasty indeed, and I think I may pick up a bottle or two. I can’t think of a better beer to toast Jackson with. I’m glad I tried it. You should try it, too. 

And remember, try a new beer today, and drink outside the box.

*Pricing data accurate at time of review or latest update. For reference only, based on actual price paid by reviewer.

(B)=Bottled

(D)=Draft

(G)=Growler