Brewer Q & A (Issue 22)

91 Rating – Saint Arnold Brewing Co. – Pumpkinator

Responses from Saint Arnold brewer Aaron Inkrott.

Who came up with this beer's recipe?
The creator of Pumpkinator is Nick Walther, who now brews at Harpoon Brewery in Boston.

What’s your favorite aspect of this beer (flavor, aroma, etc.)? 
The aroma and its ability to pair with decadent deserts. The aroma reminds me of Thanksgiving and great pumpkin pie. It's also great with roasted hazelnuts, and it ages very well. I'm particularly a fan of it with at least a year of age on it. The spices become a little more subdued and more balanced. 

Where does this beer’s name come from? 
I'm not entirely sure to be honest. Traditionally, "-ator" implies a dopplebock. I've allows thought of The Terminator when I hear Pumpkinator. The ultimate machine... meets the ultimate pumpkin stout. 

Is this your "desert island beer?"
Personally, no. But I know many people who see it as that. 

Can you describe this beer in 10 words or less?
Baker's chocolate, pumpkin, spice, sticky toffee, thick body, creamy mouthfeel

Do you know a story – or have a personal story – that revolves around this beer?
Here's one only the brewers can identify with: It's not the most enjoyable beer to make here. Sure, the mash smells amazing with the roasted and chocolate malts, and enjoying the final product after 3 months of conditioning in the fermenter is a heavenly occasion. What isn't enjoyable, however, is adding close to 500 pounds of actual pumpkin and roughly 70 pounds of spices to each batch. But it's released once a year, so we're not constantly brewing it and that's what keeps it special. Also, enjoying several vintages in a vertical tasting is always fun.