This week, Downingtown's Victory Brewing Company released their Harvest Ale, a wet-hopped beer made using six tons of fresh hops hauled in refrigerated trucks from Yakima Valley, Washington. The announcement made me think of other beloved seasonal brews, many of which are cooked up right here in Pennsylvania. Here are some of my favorites:
No fall beer list would be complete without a pumpkin ale. The secret is a high-octane, high-alcohol-driven bitterness to counteract the sweetness. Weyerbacher's Imperial Pumpkin Ale is perfectly balanced and the ideal companion on an autumn afternoon.
As the weather cools, my appetite for stouts and porters goes through the roof. Lancaster Milk Stout is a classic — smooth, sweet and drinkable. Yards Brewing Company's Love Stout is another favorite — especially when you can find it on nitro, which gives every pint that velvety head. Troeg's Brewing Company in Hersey supercharges their stellar JavaHead stout with locally roasted espresso and Kenyan coffee beans from St. Thomas Roasters in Linglestown, Pa.
Quite a few of the state's beloved breweries offer Oktoberfest ales. Phoenixville's Sly Fox is a great option: this medium-bodied, lager is made with German Vienna malts and German hops.
So, what other seasonal beers am I missed? I especially need some help when it comes to Western PA's booming brewing industy. Let us know in the comments or via twitter @KeystoneEdge.
LEE STABERT is managing editor of Keystone Edge and Flying Kite Media.