Before everyone gathers around that Thanksgiving table, many of us are plotting how to make this year different from the others. The staples of Thanksgiving from turkey to stuffing and root vegetables a-plenty could use a breath of fresh air. How about adding some new craft drinks to the mix to complement these tried and true Thanksgiving classics? Maybe a Thanksgiving beer? OK, we got you. Here are a few great craft beers that will ensure you’re heralded as the Savior and Hero of Thanksgiving.
Craft Sense Top 3 Craft Beers
Most people rightfully cringe at the thought of Thanksgiving beer, as many people think of them as a beer version of the pumpkin spice latte. And unfortunately there are many Fall or Thanksgiving beers that are trying to be pumpkin pie in a bottle – heavily spiced and over-sweetened. However it mustn’t be so. Although craft beer is now chock full of pumpkin beers, a few standout and pay a worthy tribute to the fall season. These few exceptional craft beers deserve a place at your Thanksgiving table:
Rogue Pumpkin Patch Ale
Not only is this craft beer, like all Rogue brews, brewed with “free range, coastal water” but it’s made from Rogue’s own pumpkins grown on their same farm as their hops. Talk about being a master in their craft. Don’t let the bright, orange bottle deter you. That’s just how they do over at Rogue. This craft beer has just the right amount of sweetness (this means just a touch) complements the light, yet complex blend of fall spices like cloves and cinnamon also included. This craft beer pairs well with savory mains as well as with sugary desserts. This is what a Thanksgiving beer should be.
Fall Hornin’ Pumpkin Ale
Anderson Valley is a solid craft brewery and seldom does wrong. Their tribute to Fall is no exception. Warm seasonal spices complement the sweetness of the pumpkin puree along and chocolatey malt character of this craft beer. Like the Rogue Pumpkin Patch Ale, the Fall Hornin’ Pumpkin Ale pairs well with dinner and dessert.
Epic Imperial Pumpkin Porter
Another solid and versatile craft beer choice for your Thanksgiving dinner table is Epic’s Pumpkin Porter. Direct from Utah (or maybe from its Colorado craft brewery), this porter is right on the mark at just under 8% with nice hints of vanilla. Heavy enough for fall, but not in the double-digit range like many other fall and winter Imperial craft brews. However, if you’re looking to kick it up a notch, see if you can get your hands on the whiskey barrel-aged version that brings it up to a boozy 10.3%.
Rogue Pumpkin Patch Ale on Beer Connect: Buy Here
Fall Hornin’ Pumpkin Ale: Buy Here
Epic Imperial Pumpkin Porter Whiskey Barrel-Aged: Buy Here