While I was on my way to the Malt House last week for a drink, I passed a mother threatening her son. Maybe I heard wrong, but I could've sworn she said, ""If you misbehave, I'm dropping you off at the morgue.""
Well, besides being a rather appalling display of poor parenting, it did get me in the mood for the upcoming holiday, one that's particularly huge in Madison—Halloween. In the world of beer, I can't think of any beer styles that do a better job of exemplifying Halloween than pumpkin ales. Of course, the quality and taste tend to vary, so I went into the bar unsure of what to order.
Solution: I ordered the first pumpkin Ale I saw: Southern Tier Pumking, an imperial pumpkin ale clocking in at a respectable 8.6% ABV, around $7 for a bomber (22oz) at an average liquor store.
The beer pour was a hazy, bright orange color with a little bit of head, which is surprising for something with such a high alcohol content. The smell was absolutely incredible. It was if I was in my mom's kitchen while dessert was being made— it smelled of pumpkin, nutmeg and a hint of cinnamon. My friend described the aroma as ""Thanksgiving in a glass,"" a description I was pretty much agreeable with.
Then, of course, there was the taste. I have no idea how Southern Tier did it, but it really is pumpkin pie in a glass. While Jelly Belly tries and fails to make those jelly beans that are supposed to taste like savory food items, like buttered popcorn, Southern Tier manages to collaborate all of the cornerstone flavors uniquely and successfully. I could taste the entire pie—graham cracker crust, pumpkin filling, brown sugar, spices, even a hint of caramel and, maybe my mind was playing tricks on me, a little bit of a whipped cream topping. For those of you who continually complain about how beer is a vile libation and is simply undrinkable, try this.
Now, for those interested in supporting our local breweries, you're in luck. I have two recommendations for you, both of which are wonderful pumpkin ales with delightfully bizarre names:
-Vintage Brewing Co.'s Pumpkin Disorderly
-Tyranena Brewing Co.'s Painted Ladies Pumpkin Spice Ale
Both are available locally, so drink up! Until next time, keep drinking, UW—it's good for you.
Do you have a beer or brewery you think the Cardinal should check out? Let Dylan know at dylan@dylancooks.com! He's always looking for new brews.
