The hardest part of my job *cue violins* is writing beer reviews on the same style of beers, especially in a season that features many breweries brewing the same type of beer. Pumpkin beers come to mind. Luckily, it seems breweries realize this and are starting to try very hard to be different. This weekend I’m enjoying a brew that is more than slightly different and I hope becomes a seasonal regular; this weekend Terrapin Beer Company’s Imperial Pumpkin Pie Porter is What’s on Tap!
I understand the skepticism when trying a beer that is different and combines different styles; but I love any beer that is different from the rest so I recommend anyone to give this one a try. Before taking a swig Pumpkin Pie Porter gives off a wonderful aroma that is full of spices, lots of nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla, and malt; the malty quality allows for the beer to maintain its porter style while the spices allow for pumpkin style to come through. The beer, itself, is a bit sweeter than I was expecting. I thought the malt and porter qualities would overpower the pumpkin flavors and spices but despite the sweetness there really is a nice balance here. The sweetness from the pumpkin and the caramel qualities fits nicely with the Imperial qualities of the porter.
I do not think I could drink many but I could see this brew being a great after dinner beer; especially after Thanksgiving. This weekend I am going to enjoy Imperial Pumpkin Pie Porter with grilled salmon. I have also made a pecan bourbon glaze to go over the fish which should provide the perfect pairing.
Cheers!
Beer Stats
Style: American Porter
Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 9.2%
Bitterness (IBUs): 35
Original Gravity: 21.2%
Color: Black
Malt: 2-Row Pale, Wheat, Chocolate Wheat, Crystal 85, Crystal 120, Chocolate Malt, Black Malt
Hops: Columbus and US Golding
Beer Advocate Score: 85
Rate Beer Review: 96
