Autumn Beer: 6 Philadelphia Brews For Fall
Weyerbacher Imperial Pumpkin Ale: Nothing says autumn like a good pumpkin ale. This one initially hits you with notes of cinnamon and then finishes with prominence of the classic cloves and nutmeg with which it's brewed. The imperial element of this ale is definitely evident both in aroma and taste, revealing its 8 percent ABV — at least a good 2 percent higher than the typical pumpkin ale.
Stoudt's Oktoberfest: At first sip, this doesn't seem to be the typical Oktoberfest. Its cereal notes dominate its malty flavor, though this, too, is definitely discernible in this moderately hopped, light amber brew. If you're looking for a slightly out of the ordinary Oktoberfest with a clean finish, this Adamstown beer is for you (5 percent ABV).
Fegley's Brewworks Bourbon Barrel Insidious: Aged in charred oak bourbon barrels, this is the smooth, but not too thick, beer you want to be drinking fireside. The pitch-black pour is surprisingly light with a chocolaty, bourbon scent, and has a nice drinkability given its higher alcohol content (9 percent ABV).
Flying Fish Red Fish: Though not your typical tummy-warming autumn beer, this latest ale from Flying Fish has all the qualities of a crisp fall day. Its aroma matches that of an American Pale Ale, along with a distinct, robust bitterness, but with hops that are slightly toned down to showcase its red ale qualities. A piney perfume gives this medium-bodied beer a touch of a fall feel, perfect for the early days of October (7 percent ABV).
Yards General Washington's Tavern Porter: Word is Washington had a liking for porters, especially those from brewer Robert Hare, whose original brewery stood just blocks from the current Yards location. Inspired by our very first president's original recipe, this has the classical rich flavor of a porter but isn't overbearingly heavy. Hints of caramel and coffee interject its strong molasses flavor, and make it the perfect pairing for a warm winter-approaching dessert (7 percent ABV).
Victory Festbier: This is a go-to amber lager for the fall. It's moderately hoppy and heavy on the malt, with hints of caramel and a faint nuttiness. If you're looking for a classic Octoberfest-feel, opt for this (5.6 percent ABV).
— Grace Dickenson, The Drink Nation
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