Seasonality in beer is something that has always been. From traditional spring bocks to saisons brewed in winter and bottle-conditioned for release throughout the summer months, each holds a special place in the craft beer enthusiast's heart.
Most of these were developed from cultural happenings, such as the group of parched cyclists who stopped by Franz Xaver Kugler's tavern in 1922; out of necessity, he blended lemonade with beer to extend his supply, and the radler was born.
Here are four fall beers worth seeking out, as chosen by local beer shop owners, managers and specialists. Experts in their craft, they curate some of the best bottle lists around. The following picks are fit for backyard bonfires, hearty pairings and gemütlichkeit — above all — with friends and family.
Up first is Luekens Liquors in Dunedin. The store's assortment is coveted state-wide, with people making stops during road trips to find the rarest of the rare and one-off releases (#whalezbro). Jimmy Defrank, who serves as general manager, suggests a Tampa-brewed find that's not full of pumpkin-spice-latte, nutmeg-bomb flavoring.
"One of my favorite styles of the season is a well-made Oktoberfest," Defrank told CL in a message. "I recommend Coppertail Brewing's Oktoberfest. It has a nice malty taste and holds up to the traditional German Oktoberfests, plus [there's] no pumpkin in it."
Heading north, Pasco is home to one of the most underrated booze shops in the area. This selection stays plugged in to what's new and trending while maintaining a lineup of great staples. Trinity Spirits & Wine beer guru Ryan Keeven's go-to for the autumnal season is a pumpkin beer called La Parcela.
"Let's be honest, there's some pumpkin haters out there! Jolly Pumpkin's only actual pumpkin brew is the anti-pumpkin beer, and a perfect alternative for the sour fan that wants to sneak a bit of that pumpkin spice in their life," according to Keeven. "La Parcela has a crisp sour base followed by nutmeg, cinnamon, hints of chocolate and a bite of marshmallows. Pumpkin is Bae in this beer."
With locations in St. Petersburg and South Tampa, Rollin' Oats is a frequent stop for those who like to keep it green while shopping for their favorite brews. Yep, there's a huge collection of beer, cider and wine that won't break the bank. The Tampa store's beer and wine specialist Neal Whitney recommends a solid offering from a Michigan brewery making consistent beers year after year.
"For fall I can't think of a better beer than Founders Harvest Ale. Wet hops aren't always available, so enjoy them while you can," Whitney said.
No. 4 comes from a Hyde Park staple that changed hands not too long ago, but continues to showcase quality offerings from around the globe. Swann Ave Market owner Dr. David Lubin's seasonal choice is an interesting one, which is perfect as that cool air moves in and heavier foods fill our plates.
According to Lubin, whose love for fine ales and lagers is growing, nothing beats the crisp, clean and subtle citrus and coriander spice notes of the well-crafted Einstök Icelandic White Ale.
Bonus: Autumn also brings some of my favorite styles to the forefront, including the classic bières de garde and the maibock.
Connect with CL contributor and certified cicerone Thomas Barris on Twitter.
This article appears in Sep 14-21, 2017.