Our 5 Favorite Seasonal Beers for Fall
It’s that time of year again when the leaves begin changing colors and the air smells crisp and cold. Autumn is a unique season – one where the flavors and scents of pumpkin, maple, apple, and cinnamon alone can transport us back in time. And, it’s also the time of year where brewers are aiming to bottle up holiday-specific flavors that complement the season. Even if you’re not a fan of pumpkin spice flavor, there are plenty of seasonal beers to enjoy this fall. At Chad’s BBQ, we love the fall season – and the brews that come with it. Here are some of our favorites.
1. Oktoberfest
Every fall, Germany hosts Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival. It’s no wonder then why Oktoberfest beer is one of the most revered seasonal beers for fall. Also called Märzen, Oktoberfest is a malty, dark beer that typically features a dark amber color. Right now at Chad’s BBQ, you can find DC Brau’s Oktoberfest on tap. With a light amber to copper hue, this German-style lager includes a variety of malts with a light Noble hop aroma. Raise your stein, and enjoy this tasty beer this season.
2. Pumpkin
One of the top-selling seasonal styles of beer, pumpkin ale typically contains a number of spices. You’ll note hints of nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon in pumpkin ales. These types of beers are usually brewed with pumpkin, although not every pumpkin ale contains the popular orange gourd.
Try: Pumpking by Southern Tier.
3. Maple
While maple syrup is typically tapped in March, maple beer is quickly becoming a favorite seasonal beer for autumn. That’s because its faint woody and caramelized flavor pairs well with brown ales – another popular fall beer. In general, maple brews are less heavy than pumpkin beers. And, they go well with desserts, too.
Try: Sierra Nevada Maple Scotch-Style Ale.
4. Amber
Just a touch lighter than pale ales, amber beers perfectly complement days spent watching football. Featuring a slightly heavier maltiness, amber ales and lagers are particularly drinkable. So, if you’re looking for an enjoyable seasonal beer without the heaviness of an Oktoberfest or pumpkin ale, amber beers are a go-to choice.
Try: Bell’s Amber Ale.
5. Belgian
While not all Belgian ales are seasonal, that doesn’t mean they’re not perfect for the fall season. Boasting fruity yeast flavors, Belgian-style beers put an emphasis on malts. There are tons of Belgian ales on the beer scene, but if you’re looking for something seasonal, try a pumpkin lambic or dubbel. Chad’s BBQ has a variety of Belgian-style ales, including Blue Moon Belgian White, Brewer’s Art Resurrection and Allagash White.
Taste the flavors of the season when you visit Chad’s BBQ. We rotate our seasonal brews every few weeks, so be sure to pop in a few times throughout the fall season to see what we’re serving. And, while you’re here, don’t forget to order a pulled pork sandwich, baby back ribs, or any delicious meal off of our menu.
