A Selection of 2014 Fall Pumpkin Beers
Pumpkin beers. They start popping up in late September and survive through November (possibly into early December). In general, I’ve always found them a fun, weather-appropriate drink. Here are a few that we tried this weekend.
The brews: Fruit Crate Pumpkin Ale, Superstition Pumpkin Ale and Fermentation without Representation.
Let’s start with the Fruit Crate — we did — it’s a little lighter on the pumpkin spices than the other two (though will certainly start you on the right path with its 9% ABV), but brings up the bitterness level. That, for me, made me a happy camper. Lately, I’ve been on a bit of an IPA kick, so I enjoyed the bitterness.
Next, we tried the Superstition Pumpkin Ale. It really kicked up the rich, fall flavors. Still, there wasn’t a ton of pumpkin in it — but what do people really think of when they think of pumpkin? Do they think of the flavor of pumpkin itself, or do they think of the spices? I’m guessing the spices because pumpkin itself is a pretty subtle flavor.
Then it was onto some pizza! No, seriously, that’s what we did. If you’re doing some beer drinking (I hesitate to say strictly “tasting” because we weren’t just tasting, we were drinking these), there’s not much better that goes with it than good old zza (yes, I’m fighting the good fight calling it zza, join the revolution!). I’d recommend whatever you like. See? Egalitarian.
For our final pumpkin brew, we went with the Fermentation without Representation, which is a pumpkin porter. All of you beer fans out there know that this one is going to be a big, rich, dark drink — and that’s exactly what it was. Of the three, this one was the most pumpkin spice-y and rich pumpkin flavored. As with most porters, this one erred a bit more on the coffee spectrum for my taste. That’s all me though, I’m just not a coffee fan.
How’d we pick these three? Easy, they happened to be at the store near our house. You know what else? They were all pretty darn solid. On your next trip to the store, pick up a bottle or two and see which of them you like. Alice and I are always looking for new pumpkin beers to try, what are some of your favorites?
