Sam Adams Harvest Pumpkin Ale

The Dirt
Oh Autumn, how I love you. Tis the season for Oktoberfests, harvest beers, and pumpkin beers. Pumpkin beers? Sounds wrong, doesn't it? But when done right, it is just that - right.

Sam Adams pairs its Oktoberfest beer in its Harvest sampler pack with the Harvest Pumpkin Ale. Looking like an Oktoberfest in the glass, this beer also has those malty tones, but not to the level of an Oktoberfest. This allows the pumpkin to be on display. Upon the sip, pumpkin isn't noticed right away, but emerges after the carbonation settles down in your mouth. Once this happens, it really does taste like real pumpkin - as opposed to a sweet pumpkin pie or pumpkin bars. You can also taste a hint of nutmeg and pumpkin spice in the mix. These elements combined with the malty backbone of the beer makes for a very hearty, balanced, and enjoyable beer on a crisp fall afternoon. My only complaint is that it's a little dry on the back-end, lacking a smooth finish.

Worth it?
As part of Sam Adams' fall sampler, this is a nice treat. I'd even consider buying at least one 6-pack of this during the fall if I didn't buy the sampler. If you want to try a pumpkin beer but don't want to shell out the dough for the Dogfish Head Punkin Ale (the gold standard of pumpkin beers), avoid Buffalo Bill's at all costs and try this guy out.

Final Word

Flying Dog Wild Dog Barrel-Aged Gonzo Imperial Porter

The Dirt

The world is full of imperial stouts and imperial IPAs, but there seems to be a lacking of imperial porters on the market. Thankfully Flying Dog thought the same thing, and created the Wild Dog.

Although a pretty tame label name compared to some of their other beers, the Wild Dog is properly named, as it is wildly awesome. It pours thick with low carbonation, as if it were a wine. In fact, it reminded me of a fine port in taste and feel, with a medium body for such a thick looking pour. It has a Canadian whiskey profile (it's aged in Colorado whiskey barrels), with an almost dark cherry like tone. I'd highly recommend as an after-dinner beer, especially a spicy dinner. That, and it's strong, so it'll get you ready for bed.

Worth it?

I got this as a gift from my friends Brian and Jill (thanks guys!), so in that case it certainly was worth it. But even if I had to buy it, I have no idea of the cost, but it's worth a pick-up.

The Final Word