Fall is a funny time. Just when Ohioans are ready to live year-round on their patios and in their backyards, a cold snap tugs us into reality: it’s time to pull out fishermen’s sweaters and get ready for clambakes and carving pumpkins.
Here are a few beers to accompany autumnal activities:
Three Floyds Alpha King: This vigorous American style Pale Ale made in Munster, Indiana, is ideal for those Indian summer days of raking leaves under the sun and realizing your palate’s going to crave caramel and malt after dusk. It pours a deep amber color and has a creamy head. Centennial, Cascade and Warrior hops give it strong hoppy and citrus aromas. But the aggressive hoppy flavors are mellowed with a slight caramel sweetness. This beer is definitely a crossover crowd pleaser among “hop heads” and stout/porter fans; 6.66 percent ABV.
New Belgium’s Pumpkick Ale:
This seasonal ale pours a burnt-orange and a little hazy. Aromas of spicy pumpkin plus hints of cranberry and citrus let you know it’s aptly named. The tartness of the cranberries it’s brewed with tickle the tongue but the oats added for creaminess give it a smoother finish than many tart pumpkin ales. Made with pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice, this elixir puts consumers in the mood for hayrides, haunted houses and even Thanksgiving side dishes; 6 percent ABV.
Angry Orchard The Muse:
While the fall farmers markets tempt with all things apple, this latest addition to the Cider House Collection is perfect for the season. Made using traditional culinary and bittersweet apples, this cider is finished off with French oak, giving it added depth and a bit of spice. It begins with a crisp fresh apple aroma and a hint of fino sherry. It’s fizzy, refreshing and gently sweet with citrus notes and a lingering baked apple finish; 7.7 percent ABV.
–Sarah Jaquay
