Thursday 10 January 2013

Gourd-geous Brews--Smashed Pumpkin

Smashed Pumpkin is a "pumpkin flavoured extra strong ale" brewed by the Shipyard Brewing Co. out of Portland, Maine. According to the golden foil topped 625mL bottle, Smashed Pumpkin is one of "Pugsley's Signature Series". S.P. weighs in at a robust 9.0 % alcohol.

 S.P.'s slightly cloudy orange colour can be explained by the presence of wheat. It pours with a thick cream-hued head. It has a boozy pumpkin spice aroma, with emphasis on clove and nutmeg warmth. Flavour-wise, it is extremely sweet and alcoholic-ly potent. Pumpkin is a major flavour element, but not the only one. Brown sugar and nutmed sweetness really drive the profile of this offering, as does its undeniable booziness. This is not one of those high-alcohol beers where the strength is well masked--this stuff tastes strong.

This is pretty good stuff, but a bit sweet for me. Pumpkin isn't listed among the ingredients--only pumpkin flavour. It's definitely worth a try, but be sure to clear your schedule because this stuff ain't weak.

Rating: 7.5 out of 10.

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