Sierra Nevada Sidecar
David Oldenburg, Head Brewer at Titletown Brewing Company, Green Bay, Wisconsin “I’m a fan of Sidecar, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.’s (Chico, California) “Orange Pale Ale.” It’s a great pale ale to begin with, and there’s just enough orange peel to complement the base beer’s hop character but not so much that it overwhelms the other flavors. This beer shows how the skillful use of nontraditional ingredients can create beers that are new and inventive but still taste like ... you know ... beer!”
Foothills Brewing Cottonwood Pumpkin
M. David Gonzalez, Director of Brewing Operations for Rivermen Brewing Company, Belmont, North Carolina “When it comes to a spiced beer, I personally and professionally like Foothills Brewing (Winston-Salem, North Carolina) Cottonwood Pumpkin. The blend of true pumpkin pie spices mixed with the pure pumpkin and a great base beer makes for a very well balanced fall seasonal beer. None of the flavors outdo any of the others, and they all complement each other to make for a very drinkable fall staple.”
Fonta Flora Metallic Primate
Arin Brown, Head Brewer at Proof Brewing Company, Tallahassee, Florida “Fonta Flora (Morganton, North Carolina) sets the standard for keeping it local with the use of locally sourced ingredients, spices, etc. Metallic Primate is one of my favorite brews (among others). It’s an excellent interpretation of a classic wit with a mild funk from their house saison yeast. Oranges, coriander, and bergamot-aged Earl Grey tea add an incredible depth of flavor. A very refreshing brew that melds an array of flavors into a wonderful craft brew.”