This definitely has been the year of change, as we’ve adjusted to some sort of “new normal” based on the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. And with that, many of the food and beverage events throughout the region that we all love came to a halt. Certainly, there’s been plenty of creativity put forth by event planners and beverage companies to offer virtual options, but we’d be lying if we said we didn’t miss physical events and raising our glasses for a loud cheers with a crowd.
Oktoberfest events have always served as the ideal way to celebrate harvest and the transition to fall. Traditionally, Oktoberfest beers are lagers with plenty of malt, providing toasty bread notes. But over time, the concept of serving up only one style has changed, and offerings have expanded to include seasonally flavored brews packed with notes of pumpkin and fall spices as well.
Even with Oktoberfest events canceled throughout the region this year, we’ve figured out how to celebrate the changing of the season at home. There are plenty of craft breweries working to make festive, seasonal brews that are perfect drinking companions as you celebrate Oktoberfest on your own.
Black Raven Brewing Co. | Flocktoberfest Lager
Black Raven uses Czech malted barley to create this deliciously authentic German Marzen style beer. The malt flavor brings about toasty bread notes that are a perfect transition from summer beers to cozier options for autumn.
Ghostfish Brewing Company | Lunar Harvest Pumpkin Ale
This sipper from Ghostfish is an annual release, serving up all of the best flavors of fall. Made with Belgian yeast, fall spices and pumpkin puree, this seasonal beer features notes of sweet malt, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice and everything nice.
Rogue Ales | Pumpkin Patch Ale
This seasonal release from Rogue is a fall festival in a bottle. Rogue uses pumpkins grown on its own Oregon farm for this beer, paired with notes of clove, nutmeg and cinnamon, along with hints of orange peel and vanilla to round out its profile.
Snoqualmie Falls Brewery | Harvest Moon Festbier
With dark Munich malt and German Tettnanger hops, this seasonal beer from Snoqualmie Falls Brewery is full of fall flavor. On the palate, there’s a delicious nuttiness to the brew, paired with a tiny bit of spice.
2 Towns Ciderhouse | Hollow Jackd
We know, this isn’t a beer, but it’s definitely worth a mention. What could be more delicious this time of year than a cider that’s made with caramelized pumpkins? This cider from 2 Towns is the epitome of fall flavor, with seasonal spices, well-balanced apples and a touch of Oregon pumpkin flower honey to round out this cozy sipper.
