Fall is a time consumed with change. The weather becomes crisp and the colors outdoors are in the midst of transformation. School is again upon us, which means that whether you’re excited for the football games, fall fashion or the weekly shenanigans that take place at dollar beers, it’s here.
Plus, for all you beer lovers out there, fall means the release of the seasonal craft beer selections. Oktoberfest, the largest beer festival in the world, takes place in Munich, Germany and is currently underway. Being a beer fanatic, it is my dream to one day be able to attend. But until my school days are over, I can get by with enjoying some of the exceptional seasonals that can be found in stores near us at this time of year. Here’s a list of a few:
1.) Pumpkin Ales: Whether the brewers are using real bits of pumpkin or pumpkin flavoring during the brew process, pumpkin ales are quite popular and can vary from brand to brand. Typically, they’re made with spices that would be found in pumpkin pie such as cinnamon and nutmeg. One of my favorites would be Samuel Adam’s “Harvest Pumpkin Ale.” The spices and flavor are well-balanced, and it’s full bodied and darker in color. If you prefer something lighter, perhaps Blue Moon’s “Harvest Moon Pumpkin Ale” would better suit you. Its citrus flavors shine through a pumpkin wheat taste.
2.) Oktoberfest: Just because you can’t make the journey to Munich to taste Oktoberfest beers from around the world that the festival has to offer, you can still enjoy some of the festive flavors that are being served. Oktoberfest beers are typically malty and full-bodied and pack a lot of punch with caramel flavors. One that I enjoy is the “Okto Festival Ale” from the Widmer Brothers Brewing Company located in Portland, Ore. They were the first American brewery to make an Oktoberfest style beer. This amber is brewed German-style and has sweet, malty flavors with a crisp aftertaste. If you prefer something with a heavier feel, then I suggest the “Paulaner Oktoberfest Marzen.”
3.) Harvest Ales: With fall being the time of harvest, many brewers collect hops from the fields and directly incorporate them into harvest ales, completely capturing the strong and fresh flavors of the plants. Many have a citrus or pine-like taste and wheat-y tones. A popular choice would be the “Sierra Nevada Estate Homegrown Ale,” brewed with hops grown in Sierra Nevada’s fields booming with fresh and citrus flavors.
Whether you prefer a lighter and more subtle taste or something heavy with a kick, there is something out there for you! Don’t be afraid to try new flavors and participate in the fun fall festivities that the time has to offer.