Beer reviewers sample essential pumpkin-flavored brews

Bennies and Johnnies, the weather is getting colder and so are our chances of having a winning record in fantasy football.

So, throw on your cream cardigan and bundle up with your burgundy scarf because it’s that time of the year to post your annual picture with a generic pumpkin at Collegeville Orchards (by the way, we’re not above this at all).This week, we decided to double down on the spooky season theme by trying O’Fallon’s Pumpkin Patch variety pack.

This is a raw collection of four unique beers that kept us guessing every step of the way. While you read, we recommend you throw on some Slaide Cleaves or Bob Dylan to make your experience even better…(we did). Remember, these beverages should be enjoyed by poeple 21 and over. If you are of age, be sure to Stop @ Buzzed.

**O’Fallon Pumpkin Beer**

This was a solid intro to pumpkin beer. It tastes like a tree looks in early fall: you can see the potential, but the flavor isn’t quite there yet (still worth the glance). This is the beer version of Market Pantry canned pumpkin filling. Nothing about this really stood out, especially compared to the rest of the box, much like Chuck’s midrange jumper or Jack’s wedges 100 yards and in. Overall, this was a decent brew,and definitely worth a try if you’re craving pumpkin pie in a glass.

**Pumpkin Cream Cheesecake** **Cream Ale**

Jack regrettably spilled this brew all over himself before even tasting it. Now his sweats smell like cinnamon and hops—take that how you will.

This was by far our favorite beer in this pack. Notes of vanilla and cream define this fun, playful little number. Chuck likened it to a blue tootsie roll that you only get around Halloween. It’s pleasantly tangy and lives up to its cheesecake billing. Honestly, we had no idea what to think of this, but we are delighted. We love a good cream ale.

**Pumpkin Seed Oktoberfest**

Not the best, but definitely one of the most unique beers we’ve tasted. They weren’t lying when they specified it being a “pumpkin seed” beer. If seeds are your thing, drive as fast as you legally can to Coborn’s Liquor to grab a pack. Compared to other Oktoberfests, it’s a bit more on the bitter side with a mildly spicy finish (like Asian Zing at B-dubs).

Honestly, we’re looking for a bit more of that smooth, malty finish we’ve found in prior reviews (Jack Pine, we love you, please call us back). Certainly not bad, and worth the purchase for its unique flavor.

**Chai Pumpkin Porter**

Once again, Jack has unrefined tastes and hit a porter block, so Charlie’s going to have to take the reins on this dark horse. Jack interpreted this beer to the likes of a sour root beer, and I couldn’t agree more. However, I wouldn’t be the distinguished (and humble) reviewer that I am if I didn’t mention that it reminds me of a lukewarm Chai Latte that I would order at the Schu (no shame, but the Perk does it better…shout out to Kyle, Aidan and Aaron).

Would I recommend this beer for all you Chai Latte heads? Maybe, but don’t go chasing waterfalls for this black cat. Chuck feels compelled to close with a friendly hello to the Bennie he met at Bad Habit.

We’ve given up (almost) all hope on the Serena Williams Middy girl, and we can’t say we blame her. Still a long and cold season.