Critics might say the commodification of fall has gone too far. Pumpkin lattes are one thing, but do we really need pumpkin spice-flavored protein powder?
On the other hand, there’s absolutely no harm in enjoying the traditional flavors of New England’s harvest season in our beer. #Basic or not, local seasonal beer is one of the best parts of fall — along with the brilliantly changing leaves, cozy sweaters, cider doughnuts and Sunday football, for you ladies who like to watch.
We’ve rounded up our favorite seasonal specialties by local beer makers right here in Massachusetts, including some from women-led breweries (because we ladies get down with beer, too).
Local Seasonal Beers We Love
Here’s to ushering in the crisp season with a pleasant buzz.
Thackery Binx from Redemption Rock Brewery
Inspired by the world famous Oktoberfest, Redemption Rock Brewery’s Thackery Binx features toasted bread and hop aromas with subtle caramel and dark fruit notes. The classic German-style lager has a clean, crisp finish and pairs well with a hearty pretzel. 6.2% ABV
Available only on tap at Redemption Rock Brewery, co-founded by Dani Babineau.
333 Shrewsbury St., Worcester
Steinbier by Night Shift Brewing
Debuted just in time for Oktoberfest celebrations, Night Shift Brewing’s Steinbier is a floor-malted Bohemian pilsner, mixed in with a variety of other German malts for a rich amber color and complex flavor. When poured, this medium light-body beer emits a crusty and sweet malty aroma. Its taste is reminiscent of raisin bread with a lingering bitterness. 4.7% ABV
Available on tap and in stores.
87 Santilli Hwy, Everett, MA
Autumn Ale by CraftRoots Brewing
Released in mid-September, CraftRoots‘s Autumn Ale’s main ingredient is pumpkin, but it also features notes of pie spice, a traditional blend of ginger, allspice, nutmeg and cinnamon. Available only on tap at CraftRoots Brewing, co-founded by Maureen and Robin Fabry.
4 Industrial Road, Milford, MA
Dorchester Festbier by Dorchester Brewing Co.
Dorchester Brewing’s Oktoberfest-style beer is brewed with Vienna and pilsner malts for a grainy, sweet taste balanced by German Hallertauer Tradition hops. There’s a clean finish to the light-brown Dorchester Festbier, and it makes your Würstl go down easy. 5.4% ABV
Available only on tap and sold in cans at Dorchester Brewing Co., co-founded by Holly Irgens.
1250 Massachusetts Ave., Boston, MA
First Thanksgiving on a Sour Planet by Aeronaut Brewing Co.
Aeronaut Brewing Co. will release its The First Thanksgiving on a Sour Planet wheat ale in early November. The local seasonal beer is brewed with apples picked from Carlson Orchards in Harvard, Massachusetts. Consequently, it is pleasantly tart and grainy, and as referenced in its quirky name, it has an unexpected sour twist.
Available on tap and in stores.
14 Tyler St, Somerville, MA
The Great Pumpkin Ale by Cambridge Brewing Company
Formulated way, way before the pumpkin-spice craze — 1990 to be specific — the Great Pumpkin Ale by Cambridge Brewing Company is brewed with Mass-grown pumpkins. Caramel malts, cinnamon and allspice complements this ale, which goes down well while sitting by a fire on a chilly October night.
Available on tap and bottled in stores. 5.4% ABV
1 Kendall Square, Bldg 100, Cambridge, MA