As the crisp air of autumn settles in and the leaves transform into vibrant shades of orange and gold, the anticipation for Halloween begins to brew—not just in the hearts of trick-or-treaters but within the craft beer community, too. While pumpkin ales have carved out a niche for themselves as a seasonal staple, craft breweries have been increasingly clever in concocting brews that align perfectly with the spooky spirit of October, without necessarily relying on a melange of spices typically associated with fall. If you’re on the lookout for some unique beers to enjoy while celebrating Halloween, here’s a roundup of five standout options that balance festivity with flavor, making them ideal companions for Halloween gatherings, parties, or even a cozy night of movie marathons with ghoulish themes.
Not your typical seasonal ale, Allagash Brewing Company’s Black offers an intriguing departure from their classic Belgian styles. The beer presents a hoppy black ale experience that invigorates the taste buds with its profound notes of dark cocoa, roasted coffee, and a touch of piney bitterness from a blend of Cascade, Nugget, and Northern Brewer hops. At an inviting 6.66% ABV, this beer is not only delicious but also cleverly thematic for Halloween. It embodies the essence of nostalgia for craft beer enthusiasts, reminiscent of black IPAs that reigned supreme a decade ago, making it an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in something different this spooky season.
Jester King Brewery, known for its innovative and creative approaches to brewing, presents Wytchmaker, a beer that has evolved significantly over the past decade. This modern, funky, hazy IPA is both refreshing and rich, brewed with malted rye to enhance its complexity and introduce an earthy undertone. Hopped with crowd favorites such as El Dorado, Simcoe, Amarillo, Citra, and Mosaic Cryo, Wytchmaker is a delightful blend of flavors that will enchant your palate. However, snagging a can can be tricky as it’s primarily released in limited batches from their Austin, Texas location. The striking can art by Joshua Cockrell is just the icing on the cake, making this beer a perfect addition to your Halloween lineup.
What better way to celebrate Halloween than with a nod to classic horror? Great Lakes Brewing Co. honors the iconic vampire film with their Nosferatu double red IPA, part of a creative “double feature” series. Boasting an 8% ABV, this beer is heavily hopped with Simcoe and Cascade varieties, which impart a forward bitterness that pairs beautifully with any chilling film screening you might be hosting. Its robust flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for those who want to revel in the eerie ambiance while sipping a brew that complements the season.
Standing the test of time, Rogue Dead Guy continues to embody the spirit of craftsmanship. Marketed as a “maibock-style ale,” it straddles the line between traditional and contemporary brewing methods. This amber-colored creation is characterized by its caramel and herbal notes, making it a cozy companion for chilly evenings spent around a bonfire or curled up under a blanket. With its unique blend of flavors, Dead Guy remains a hallmark of autumnal brewing, and its nostalgia can evoke memories of Halloweens past, thereby cementing its position as a seasonal favorite.
For those craving something truly unique, look no further than Westbrook Brewing Company’s Costume Party. This sweet imperial stout is brewed with hundreds of pounds of actual Snickers bars, infusing it with chocolatey richness and caramel flavors that will satisfy the sweetest tooth. At a noteworthy 11% ABV, this dessert-like brew in a convenient 16 oz. can is perfect for sharing with friends during Halloween festivities. Costume Party creatively redefines what a Halloween beer can be, providing an indulgent experience that pairs enjoyment with nostalgia.
As you dive into your Halloween celebrations, consider venturing beyond the standard pumpkin ales to explore these creatively crafted brews. With unique flavors and themes, each of these beers adds a distinctive twist to the Halloween spirit. Enjoy responsibly and cherish the moments shared with friends and family over these delectable beers! Cheers to a spooky and satisfying Halloween!