Den of Sin-Pumpkin
BREWERY: Rahr & Sons Brewing Co., Fort Worth
STYLE: Pumpkin Ale; a diverse style, brewed with cut pumpkin, pumpkin puree, or pumpkin flavoring, and usually spiced with the baking spices typically found in pumpkin pie.
THE PITCH: Brewed with real pumpkin, this delicious, malty brown ale incorporates the flavors of pumpkin pie without the dessert's sweetness. Ginger, cinnamon, clove and allspice aromas and flavors complement the beer's malty core. Subtle pumpkin and nut flavors play a supporting role. Although it shows a faint caramel-malt sweetness, the beer is nicely balanced with hops and has a dry finish. The alcohol level (7.8%) is well hidden, so the beer is surprisingly easy-drinking. It's a good choice for crisp fall nights or Halloween parties.
FUN FACTS: Rahr's Den of Sin series consists of small-batch, limited release seasonal brews sold in four-packs. Den of Sin was another nickname for Hell's Half Acre - a rough and rowdy saloon district in Fort Worth, frequented by cowboys and outlaws in the late 1800s.
SERVE IT/PAIR IT: Although easy to drink on its own, this would also pair well with spicy stews, chili, chicken mole, roast pork, grilled sausage, and sharp cheddar or aged gouda cheese.
GET SOME: Sold in 4-packs of 12-ounce cans for about $11.99 at select Whole Foods Market, Central Market, Total Wine, and Spec's stores.
Tina Danze
