Monday Rant: Fall Seasonal Beer - Not Too Shabby

A billowing, yet refreshing glass of Southern Tier Pumking.

Everyone knows about my expressed anger about the early release of pumpkin ales in the last few weeks of August. I'm long over that and have stocked up accordingly. I've also let it be known that the summer season is most likely my favorite due to the numerous types of brews that are released during the spring and summer months.

Now, if I didn't have summer to select from in this process I'd definitely be happy settling with the fall seasonal brews. As a matter of fact, it wouldn't be settling at all. I'd take it in a heartbeat if I was forced to. The changing  leaves and nippy Pittsburgh air this past weekend (along with a gorgeous photograph of a Pumking draft I snapped) have led me to believe that fall is pretty much here. There won't be many hot days from here on out.

Fall is one of the most festive times of the year. All of the kids in our local neighborhoods are gearing up for Halloween in just over a month. Thanksgiving is right around the corner as well.

Being festive also includes some awesome beer, which there is a plethora of. The two main ones are pumpkin ales and Oktoberfests as everyone knows. They both signify some of the things we love to do during this time of the year, mainly congregating and consuming brews. Don't worry, I do realize thatOktoberfest originated in the Bavarian part of Germany. We just continue much of that historic tradition over here in America.

These beers are historic in value as well. I've mentioned the Oktoberfest factor already. The pumpkin ales, from what I can find, are kind of like a reincarnate of beers that some of the first settlers in the New England area made. It's still somewhat debated as to how the pumpkin was actually used/substituted, though.

Some of the flavors of these brews reflect the season perfectly. The spices such as vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg used in pumpkin ales are consistently used in certain holiday dishes of the season. The actual pumpkin needs no explanation as many will be carved and set on your porches.

I was down at the beginning of the fall beer season, but I knew it wouldn't last. it's time to enjoy these fabulous concoctions.