Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt and pepper.
Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy brown. Remove bacon and crumble. Add sage leaves, and allow to cook 2-3 minutes.
Add 2 Tbl. pan drippings, crumbled bacon, and buttermilk into flour mixture. Use a rubber spatula to mix ingredients, scrapping down sides of bowl until just combined.
Turn dough out onto a well floured surface. Knead dough, turning about 6-8 times just until it comes together (do not overwork). Form into a 6-inch round and place on an ungreased baking sheet. Use a sharp knife and cut a 1/2" deep 'x' in the top of dough. Use a fine mesh sifter and dust top of bread with flour.
Bake for 30 - 35 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean.