I know Christmas-themed ales are already crowding out the shelves in beer sections and beer stores around the country. That's a separate article. But there's still time to talk about Thanksgiving - believe it or not!
First, I want to say, I am a doubter. Especially about things like this, There are maybe one or two pumpkin ales I like - the traditional provider like Harpoon or the Southern Tier Pumpking Imperial Ale. I've had others. All fine. Maybe a few better than that. Long Island Farm Brewery Pumpkin Ale has been one of the others to have really impressed.
But I recently tried Drowned Lands Brewery Scythe. The owner of Drowned Lands Brewery is Mike Kraai. He founded the brewery in Warwick, New York, which is known for its traditional fermentation techniques using large oak barrels, called foeders, to age its beers.
This isn't some ale that some 'clever' brewer spiked with traditional "pumpkin spice". This is an actual pumpkin ale. Scythe Pumpkin Ale is made by using a blend of Vienna, Munich, Biscuit, Red Wheat, and Spelt malts to create a bready base. Actual pumpkin is added during the whirlpool, and the beer is then fermented with their house yeast. Finally, after fermentation, a conditioning period occurs with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and clove spices.
The result is a beer that tastes like pumpkin pie. Not sweet, not cloying, but smooth, rich, and incredibly delicious. The spices are nice, but very much in the background. This is actual pumpkin - and it stands out. A real beer made with real pumpkin. And it pairs well with food. Amazing.
I wouldn't say I am a convert to the category just yet - but I have had my eyes opened. Want to add something really cool to your Thanksgiving beverage rotation? Go and get the last few cans of Drowned Lands Brewery Scythe - and impress your family and friends.
The best pumkin ale I've ever had.