Fall Hornin’ Pumpkin Ale
Anderson Valley Brewing Company’s seasonal beer has delicious aromas of baked bread with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin and spices. With a creamy mouthfeel and sweet caramel flavors, it’s got a smooth and round finish.
Get it: $10 at The Good Beer Company
2014 Classic Release Stone Old Guardian
Stone Brewing Co.’s limited release is actually an English ale called barleywine. This hefty brew is big on malt and hops, creating a rich and slightly sweet ale with bright hop notes. It’s got bready and banana-like aromas combined with toffee malt flavors and a citrus finish.
Get it: $28 at Brewers’ Craft
XIPA
Brewerkz’s newest addition is their World Beer Cup gold medal winner, XIPA. It’s a bigger, bolder and brawnier version of their house IPA with even more malt, hops and alcohol, so expect really punchy and slightly more bitter flavors.
Get it: $11/pint or $7.50/bottle at Brewerkz
Sansho Ale
A little known Japanese craft beer from Iwate Kura Brewery, this deep golden seasonal brew has strong notes of green or Sichuan peppercorn. For something peppery, it’s actually got delicate flavors that are balanced by the herbal and spicy notes similar to those found in wine. It has maltier backbone but the aromas and flavors of peppercorn, ginger and citrus follow.
Get it: $17 at Restaurant Sela
Dead Guy Ale
Rogue Brewery’s seasonal release has no pumpkins in sight, but it does have a nice glow: this German-style Maibock has a hazy, deep golden color with aromas of sweet honey and citrus. True to the autumn season, it is reminiscent of honey graham crackers with toasted malt and gives way to hoppy and slightly creamy flavors.
Get it: $20 at Thirsty The Beer Shop
