With Labor Day well behind us, the dregs of tomato season are giving way to pumpkin-flavored-everything in a polarizing time of year that overtakes big box stores, grocery aisles, and bottle shops. No matter if you are pro-PSL or don’t believe in summer ending until the fall equinox (or both), there is no doubt that Oktoberfest and pumpkin beers will be everywhere at this time of year. Although it’s seasonal, there is a risk for drinkers.
Team Food & Wine tried as many seasonal beers and wines as possible to make picking up a six-pack less daunting. Find the best seasonal beers for any tailgate or Halloween party.
We have to admit that we were initially unsure what to think of CAKE!, a limited edition pastry beer made by Massachusetts-based Exhibit “A” Brewing Company. This beer is brewed with specialty light-roast espresso and has a delicious coffee cake taste with a surprisingly savory finish. Our team detected vanilla and bell pepper flavors. This is a balanced autumn beer for coffee lovers.
One editor described the dark-hued Allagash ale as almost stout-like. Other editors mentioned caramelized coffee and molasses flavors. It is predictably hoppy but in a good way. This beer is a reliable fall choice with excellent distribution across the country.
We had high expectations when we launched Thompson Island’s fall offering. The Delaware-based brewery delivered. One editor suggested that the beer would appeal to fans of sours. Others agreed on a nice balance, lots of hops, and a toasted bread finish.
Genesee Brewing Co. created a golden beer that our team found very easy to drink. Many editors thought this beer would be great for non-beer drinkers (including me). ).
This is the most accessible beer to source, as most likely, your local bodega has it in stock. The aromas of cinnamon, baking spice, and nutmeg were enjoyed by our team, but the surprisingly bright acidity was what they loved most. One editor said, “This beer would be great for wine drinkers.”
Our editors loved this traditional German-style Oktoberfest beer. One editor said it tasted like shortbread cookies, while another appreciated its subtle acidity and smooth finish. It was a bright, eye-catching can in bright red with a charming illustration of a Bavarian village.
The packaging for this beer is quite complex. It’s not a “special” release. This spicy release has a lot to offer. And the flavor is bold and big. We could taste the harmonious and tangy flavors of star anise, cardamom, and nutmeg. This is a good option for people who don’t like pumpkin-flavored fall beers but still want something seasonal to warm their spirits.
This ale is a departure from Atomic Pumpkin. It doesn’t shy away from sweeteners, but many people were happy with it. You can imagine flavors of caramel and cinnamon rolls mixed with wheat berries and nutty farro. It’s a strange combination, but it works.
This Montauk Brewing Co. seasonal pumpkin ale is as Montauk as they come. This option will only satisfy your autumnal cravings for strong spices and pumpkin flavors. However, our team loved its subtle hops and clean taste.
