Discussing fall would be a lot easier if it felt like fall. But, the heat is not the boss of us + we’re going to pull out the scarves and drink some fall beer, dang it. Since it’s officially seasonal beer time, we reached out to a local pro for recommendations.
Here are Eliot Kaufmann, Beer Specialist at Imbibe Chattanooga’s top picks for fall:
🍺 Ayinger Bräuweisse
Kaufmann’s take: The quintessential German Hefeweizen, this wheat beer is perfect for warm, Fall days. It carries a distinct banana-like aroma but is light and bubbly on the palate. Its yeasty character reminds me of a biscuity Champagne and will remind the drinker of fresh-baked bread. At only 5.1% ABV, this beer is quaffable and refreshing without sacrificing layers of flavor.
Cost: 4 Pack of 11.2 ounce bottles is $11.99
🍺 Sierra Nevada Oktoberfest
Kaufmann’s take: A fall beer list would not be complete without the inclusion of the now world-famous marzen style lager. Every year, craft beer giant Sierra Nevada teams up with a German brewery to bring in their fall seasonal and this year they chose Bitburger. The two breweries have created a crisp, malty lager with a medium amber color and just a hint of hops. The perfect fall substitute for a lighter lager beer, this Oktoberfest is meant to be crushed as the weather cools.
Cost: 6 Pack of 12 ounce bottles is $9.49
🍺 Elkmont Exchange Recluse Brown Ale
Kaufmann’s take: This fine brown ale comes to us from just up the road at Elkmont Exchange in Knoxville. Brewed with barley, wheat, chocolate malt, and brown sugar, this beer manages to avoid the syrupy, sweetness that befalls so many dark beers in the market. Full-bodied yet easy-drinking, this beer reminds me of a bitter bar of dark chocolate--rich and palate cleansing. As the weather cools, this beer will be perfect for an evening watching football or around a warm fire.
Cost: 4 Pack of 16 ounce cans is $13.49
ProTip: If you don’t drink, check out this article we wrote about the sober curious movement. And for those of you drinking, always do so responsibly.
What are your go-to seasonal drinks?
Here’s what you told us.
- “Rahr & Sons Oktoberfest because it’s perfect when (if) the temps get cooler.” – @alliec516
- “Shock Top! Fall edition is very smooth.” – @soccer_leagueplus
- “Franziskaner - fantastic wheat beer. Dark, heady and tastes like heaven. Oh. It’s German.” – @gaidenx88
