Fall brings crisp air, flannel shirts, changing leaves – and a beeline for Oktoberfest and pumpkin ales. While these classic fall brews dominate the tap lists this time of year, they’re not the only ones that evoke that cozy fall feeling with every sip. At The Growler Guys, we’re all about the full spectrum of craft beer. Ready to go beyond the seasonal stereotypes? Here are some underrated fall beers that are worth a try.
Five Underrated Fall Beers
1. Brown Ales
Brown ales might be the most underrated fall beer. These brews are perfect for fall – think of them as the beer equivalent of your favorite cable-knit sweater. They have subtle notes of caramel, chocolate, or even dried fruit, and their nutty, slightly sweet flavors won’t overwhelm your palate. Look for American browns with a hoppy twist or go traditional with an English-style brown ale. Either way, you’ll get a malt-forward comfort that pairs perfectly with brisk evenings and roasted dinners.
2. Porters
When the leaves start to change color, so should your beer. Porters are a great way to dip into darker styles without committing to the intensity of a stout. They’re roasty, smooth, and surprisingly drinkable. Many brewers give porters an indulgent yet balanced seasonal twist by playing with flavors like coffee, vanilla, or toasted coconut this time of year. These underrated fall beers pair well with fall foods like chili, smoked meats, BBQ, or even s’mores by the fire.
3. Harvest IPAs & Fresh Hop Ales
Fresh hop season is one of the best-kept secrets of fall beer. These underrated fall beers use hops brewed within hours of being harvested. The result is a uniquely vibrant and floral flavor profile you won’t find any other time of year. Unlike their piney, bitter West Coast cousins, fresh hop ales are grassy and herbaceous, celebrating terroir. Be sure to look for beers labeled “fresh hop” or “wet hop” – they’re different from dry-hopped IPAs and are typically only around for a few weeks.
4. Amber Ales & Red IPAs
For those who want a middle ground between the malt of fall and the hops of summer, amber ales and red IPAs are the best of both worlds. Another underrated fall beer, these brews strike a balance between caramel malts and bright hop bitterness, resulting in a complex flavor perfect for transitional weather. They’re not too heavy and endlessly satisfying. They also pair beautifully with fall dishes like roasted squash, root vegetables, and grilled sausages.
5. Barrel-Aged Beers
Barrel-aged beers start appearing as the weather cools – and these underrated fall beers are worth seeking out. Whether it’s a porter aged in bourbon barrels or a barleywine with a whiskey kick, these beers are meant to be sipped and savored. While they’re more intense, these brews are often layered with notes of vanilla, oak, spice, and a hint of boozy warmth – ideal for late-night conversations around the fire pit.
Rethink Your Fall Pint at The Growler Guys
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a classic Oktoberfest or pumpkin beer, but why stop there? Fall is filled with creative, underrated beers that celebrate the season in subtle, complex ways. Whether you’re drawn to rich malts, fresh hops, or smooth dark styles, your local Growler Guys probably has it on tap. We’re always rotating in seasonal selections from the best craft breweries near and far. Stop in for a pint, flight, or growler fill today and let our certified Beer Stewards pour you something different this season.
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