Yes, it’s still scorching hot outside, but stores’ shelves have replaced flowers and swim toys with pumpkins and scarecrows. Summer has unofficially ended (insert sad face), so we would like to introduce Weelunk to some of our favorite Oktoberfest, Pumpkin and Autumn brews (insert BIG happy face). This is a short-lived period in the beer world, so it’s best to start early in order to sample them all!
Yuengling Oktoberfest – America’s oldest brewery introduced Oktoberfest in 2011, and it is certainly has become a fan favorite. Oktoberfest is a blend of Tettnang and Hallertau hops that pairs well with traditional German cuisine. Copper in color, this medium bodied beer serves up a slightly sweet, toasted character and mild herbal bitterness. Available in both six-pack bottles and draft, Yuengling Oktoberfest is a best seller in seasonals. ABV 5.45%
Hofbrau Oktoberfest – Brewed especially for the largest festival in the world, Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany, Hofbrau is not a typical Oktoberfest brew. Hofbrau’s hops are a bit more prevalent, the alcohol content is slightly higher, and the appearance is a shade paler than the traditional Oktoberfest beers. Light caramel and malt flavors add to the beer’s fine balance, particularly when paired with Bavarian cuisine. Offering 6.3% alcohol by volume and a clean, crisp edge, it is a vital part of the Oktoberfest experience. Hofbrau imports the same beer, from the same batches that are made for its own tent at the Munich Beer Festival. Available in both six-pack bottles and draft.
Goose Island Autumn Ale – To many likings, Autumn Ale has returned to Goose Island family after going hiatus for a few years. Pouring the color of autumn leaves, Goose Island’s red ale opens with pine aromas, and its spicy hop flavors and dry finish warms with every sip. Brewed with Amarillo and Mt. Hood hops from the Elk Mountain Farms, Goose Autumn Ale is the perfect companion for those looking for a heartier beer to welcome crisp fall weather. Available alongside Goose Oktoberfest in six-pack bottles. Goose Island Oktoberfest is also available in draft. 6.7% ABV
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edhook Pumpkin Porter – Out of Your Gourd Pumpkin Porter is dark chestnut brown in color and is made with pureed pumpkin. Cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger are added to the whirlpool and maple syrup is added during fermentation. This full-bodied, rich roasty porter makes you want to eat turkey and watch football, or build a bonfire. There is only a very limited quantity of Pumpkin Porter available. You can find it in 6 pack bottles at Kroger in Wheeling. 5.8% ABV
Shock Top Pumpkin Wheat – Who doesn’t love a pumpkin with a mohawk? Shock Top Pumpkin Wheat combines the smooth taste of Shock Top with the flavors of fall. It starts with a traditional Belgian-style wheat ale and then brewed with ripe pumpkins and a variety of autumnal spices, including nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves, for a refreshingly smooth beer that fully captures all the flavors of fall. This beer also makes for the perfect ingredient in fall dishes; just google Shocktop Pumpkin recipes. Available in six-packs bottles and draft. 5.2% ABV
We hope these brews make you want to throw on a sweater, run in the leaves, and take a hayride. Enjoy them while they last; some of the brews listed above will be gone before October even gets here. Sounds strange, but it’s true. We will be back soon with our top picks of Winter Brews!
