Let’s face it — this is the time of year where things are expected to get a little spooky. Whether you find yourself headed to a Halloween party surrounded by ghouls and goblins or dealing with spirited trick or treaters, you’re going to need a beer in hand to help ward off evil spirits and ease you into lighter ones. Don’t let the names of these brews trick you into thinking that they’re anything short of a treat.
Slaughter House | Payette Brewing Co. | Boise, ID
Named after Slaughterhouse Gulch, a meat-packing district in Boise, this India red ale is dark amber in color and hints at malty, rich flavors. It has flavorful, fruity hops that are balanced by a roasted malt base, resulting in a killer 7.5 percent ABV beer.
The Dark Star | Fremont Brewing | Seattle
On those dark and stormy nights that roll through the PNW this time of year, you’re going to need a drink like this imperial oatmeal stout to keep you warm. Black in color, the Dark Star is 8.0 percent ABV and full of cocoa and espresso flavors that will guide you on a mysterious journey fit for foggy fall evenings.
Dead Guy | Rogue Ales | Newport, OR
Paired well with a spicy pork sandwich, this German maibock-inspired ale is honey in color and rich in flavor. With hints of caramel and Pacman yeast, the 6.8 percent ABV Dead Guy Ale gives off a malty aroma that stirs the senses — almost enough to wake the dead.
Spooky Tooth | Fat Head’s Brewing | Portland
Sink your teeth into this sumptuous imperial pumpkin ale, a roasty and malt-forward beer touting the addition of brown sugar, roasted pumpkin, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and allspice. A beer that thinks it is pumpkin pie, prepare your palate for a full-bodied sip that might almost work as a liquid diet on Halloween night.
Rest In Peach | Backcountry Brewing | Vancouver, BC
This fruity concoction is the perfect way to reward yourself after a long night of pumpkin carving or visiting haunted houses. Treat yourself to this tart sour conditioned on over 500 pounds of peaches, resulting in this 5.3 percent ABV, creamy and balanced brew. Despite the name, this ale is sure to raise your spirits.
