As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crisp edge, it’s time to transition from the light, refreshing brews of summer to the richer, more robust flavors of fall. Fall beers celebrate the harvest, bringing warm, comforting spices, full-bodied ales, and the ever-popular pumpkin beers. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or a casual drinker looking to explore new flavors, here’s a guide to the best fall beers you should try this season.
5 Beers for Fall
5 Beers for Fall1. Oktoberfest and Märzen Beers
No discussion of fall beers would be complete without mentioning the classic Oktoberfest and Märzen beers. Traditionally brewed in March (hence the name Märzen), these beers are aged throughout the summer and ready to be enjoyed during the fall. Marzen beers are known for their smooth, malty sweetness with a toasted-bread like flavor and clean, dry finish. Their amber to deep copper color makes them visually, as well as flavorfully, perfect for autumn.
2. Pumpkin Ales
Nothing says fall quite like pumpkin ales. These beers typically feature pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a taste reminiscent of a pumpkin pie. While some may find pumpkin beers to be a bit on the sweeter side, they are undeniably a fall favorite, perfect for sipping on a cool evening by the fire.
3. Brown Ales
Brown ales are a fantastic choice for those looking for something a bit less sweet and more on the nutty, malty side. Often presenting notes of caramel, toffee, and chocolate, these beers are usually medium-bodied, with a balance of malt and hop bitterness. Brown ales can range from lighter, more sessionable beers to richer, more robust brews, making them versatile companions to a variety of fall activities, from hiking to tailgating.
4. Spiced Ales
Spiced ales take the flavors of all to the next level by incorporating spices commonly associated with the season. These can range from subtle hints of spice to full-on spice bombs. Common ingredients include cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice, resulting in a beer that tastes like autumn in a glass, often with a warming quality perfect for cooler weather.
5. Harvest Ales
Harvest ales, also known as wet hop or fresh hop ales, celebrate the end of the growing season and often use hops that are freshly picked and used immediately without being dried. This results in a beer with incredibly vibrant, fresh hop flavors and aromas, often with earthy, grassy, or floral notes. Harvest ales can range from pale ales to IPAs and are a great way to celebrate the hop harvest and enjoy the flavors of the season in their purest form.
Pairing Fall Beers with Seasonal Foods
Fall beers are incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. Here are some ideas to elevate your autumn meals:
Oktoberfest Beers: bratwurst, pretzels, and roasted meats.
Pumpkin Ales: roasted turkey, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie (of course!)
Brown Ales: roasted nuts, sharp cheeses, and hearty stews
Spiced Ales: gingerbread, spiced cookies, and roasted vegetables
Harvest Ales: grilled meats, fresh salads, and apple desserts
The Growler Guys Keeps All The Flavors of Fall on Tap
Fall is filled with warm, rich flavors, and the beers brewed during this time perfectly reflect that. Whether you’re a fan of malty Oktoberfest beers, spiced ales, or the ever-polarizing pumpkin ales, you’ll find your perfect fall beer on tap at your local Growler Guys. Grab a pint or a flight and taste the season in every sip.
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