F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Pumpkin Ale
What the brewers say
“A hearty ale brewed with pumpkin, cinnamon, allspice, and ginger with a full body and amber color.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Rich malty aroma, but not much spice. Moderate esters. Nose is more toward the ‘beery’ side than pumpkin-pie spice.”
Flavor: “So much more flavor than aroma. Pumpkin and caramel malt notes are followed by balanced spices (cinnamon, a touch of ginger or clove) and a touch of brown sugar. In the finish, the balance shifts toward malt and sweetness. Moderate fruity esters throughout.”
Overall: “Flavor is good with a nice underlying sweetness that accentuates the pumpkin-pie flavor—with whipped cream and all. Good beer but overall level of flavor and spice is perhaps too subdued for the category.”
