Fall is a time to slow down, enjoy the crisp air, and savor the flavors of the season. Whether you're looking for something rich and malty, dark and roasty, or spiced and aromatic, there’s a fall beer out there for you. From Belgian Dubbels to light stouts, Vienna-style lagers to pumpkin ales, the variety of autumn beers ensures that you’ll find the perfect brew for every occasion.
At Brewfits, we know that every season brings new opportunities to explore different brews. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top beers for Fall 2024 that go perfectly with flannels over hoodies, pumpkin spice lattes, and the smell of the changing leaves.
Belgian Dubbels: Rich and Complex
Belgian Dubbels are quintessential fall beers with a rich, malty character and a hint of dark fruit flavors like plum, raisin, and fig. Originating from Trappist monasteries in Belgium, Dubbels are brewed using a special Belgian yeast strain that imparts a slightly sweet, almost caramelized flavor with spicy undertones of clove and pepper.
These medium-bodied beers are perfect for sipping slowly on cooler nights, and their layered flavors pair wonderfully with autumn dishes like roasted meats, stews, and aged cheeses. Whether you're an aficionado of Belgian styles or trying them for the first time, Belgian Dubbels offer a cozy complexity that feels right at home during the fall months.
Recommendation: Cadence | Reformation Brewery
Barrel-Aged Stouts: Bold and Complex
If they made Hallmark movies for fall, barrel-aged stouts are what the couple would be drinking when they realized they were falling in love. These beers are aged in barrels that once held bourbon, whiskey, or other spirits, which infuse the stout with deep notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel. The aging process also smooths out the stout's naturally robust characteristics, introducing layers of warmth and subtle sweetness.
Perfect for sipping slowly, barrel-aged stouts are a favorite for fall nights by the fire or for sharing at a festive gathering. Their higher ABV and full-bodied nature make them an indulgent choice, ideal for pairing with hearty dishes like braised meats or decadent desserts like chocolate cake or bread pudding. Barrel-aged stouts are more than just a beer—they’re an experience, perfect for savoring as the seasons change.
Recommendation: Gran Riserva 2024 | Double Stamp Brewery
Märzen (Oktoberfest Beers): The Classic Fall Brew
No fall beer list is complete without mentioning Märzen, the traditional Oktoberfest beer. Märzens are medium-bodied lagers with a deep amber color and a malty backbone. These beers were originally brewed in March ("Märzen" in German) and stored to be enjoyed during the fall festival season.
Expect a smooth, slightly sweet malt profile with notes of caramel, toasted bread, and a clean, dry finish. Oktoberfest beers are incredibly versatile, pairing well with just about any fall meal, but especially traditional German fare like pretzels, bratwurst, and sauerkraut.
Recommendation: Lucy in Lederhosen | Crooked Culture
Pumpkin Ales: Autumn in a Glass
Perhaps no beer style is more synonymous with fall than pumpkin ales. Love them or hate them, these seasonal brews capture the essence of autumn by blending real pumpkin puree with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. The result is a beer that tastes like a slice of pumpkin pie in liquid form.
The balance between malt sweetness and spice varies from brewery to brewery, but a good pumpkin ale should offer a warming, spiced profile without overwhelming the palate. Pumpkin ales pair perfectly with desserts like pumpkin pie and spiced cookies, or even with savory dishes like roast turkey or pork.
Recommendation: The Great Punkin’ Spice | Pontoon Brewing
Spiced Porters: Rich and Warming
Spiced porters are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall, combining the dark, roasted malt profile of a traditional porter with the warming spices of the season. Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger are often added to the brew, creating a balanced, aromatic experience that feels like a cozy fall evening in every sip.
Spiced porters are great for pairing with autumnal dishes like roasted meats, spiced nuts, or pumpkin pie, enhancing the flavors of both the food and the beer. Their smooth, medium body and toasty flavors make them an ideal choice for sipping on chilly nights or around the bonfire. With just the right amount of spice, these porters are a fantastic blend of comforting tradition and seasonal innovation, offering a taste of fall in every glass.
Recommendation: Horchata Milk Porter | Indio Brewing Co.
At Brewfits, we’re all about perusing the world of craft beer. So grab one of these fall favorites and toast to the season—there’s plenty of great beer to discover and breweries to explore, and the cooler months are just the beginning.
