It might not feel like the seasons are changing quite yet (hello, Second Summer), but the fall season of food and beverage has finally arrived. Particularly in Charlotte, now begins an influx of seasonal and limited-release beers from local breweries. For the uninitiated, here are a few special releases to put on your radar:
NoDa Brewing’s signature pumpkin ale made its seasonal debut last month, but this is one you’ll want to stock up on for the cooler months ahead. This beer has all the fall spice notes you’d want in a seasonal pumpkin ale, and still light enough to enjoy when we inevitably end up with a hot streak in October.
Up All Night – Triple C Brewing
Triple C’s Up All Night breakfast porter is what you want when the air starts to chill and you’re craving something a little darker to warm up. Several barrel-aged variants of this beer are also typically available when it is released in November. This is an event to attend and try them all at the same time.
Yule Bock – Olde Mecklenburg Brewery
Charlotte’s largest local brewery, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, releases its holiday seasonal Yule Bock typically in December. This traditional German-style bock is smooth and malty, sure to lift holiday spirits. Recommended drinking by a fireplace (or fire pit in OMB’s beer garden).
MexiCali Stout – Birdsong Brewing Co.
Pick up the MexiCali Stout from Birdsong Brewing for a little sweet and a little spice this season. This seasonal release features locally-roasted coffee from Central Coffee, serrano peppers, cinnamon, and cocoa nibs for a roasty treat in cooler temps. Look for this offering to hit shelves and the taproom in late October.
Mary’s Monster – Bold Missy Brewery
Bold Missy Brewery’s fall seasonal beer even ties in to the holiday spirit, drawing inspiration from Mary Shelley and her monster from Frankenstein. This brew comes with the nostalgia of a traditional pumpkin pie by incorporating classic spices like cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg.
