Southern Tier Brewing Company Pumking
What the brewers say
“Take a whiff of this complex ale and your journey has just begun. At first sip, a magical spell will bewitch your taste buds, yet another victim enraptured by the Pumking.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Unique lemon and malt sweetness up front, with notes of vanilla, toffee, caramel, and creme brûlée. A hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, but caramel candy note dominates. Slight floral potpourri notes on top of the pumpkin.”
Flavor: “Vanilla, brown sugar, and caramel sweetness at first taste, with a touch of pumpkin-pie spices (mostly ginger) to support. The sweetness gives way to the ginger spiciness. The vanilla/caramel flavor comes through a bit artificial, but still works well in the beer. Also tastes of lemon and some earthiness. Finishes slightly astringent and sharp.”
Overall: “A unique, well-executed, original take on a pumpkin beer (the lemon-esque flavor is unique). Biggest complaint from others will be the ginger and the ‘artificial’ flavoring, but personally, I really enjoy it in this beer. It will be polarizing, but for this particular judge, one of my favorite pumpkin beers.”
