The Gourd Standard

An interesting twist on the seasonal pumpkin beer, Flying Dog mashes pumpkin into an IPA with this brew. In respect to pumpkin beers, this one hits the nail on the head. Everything "pumpkin" about this beer – the sweet roasted pumpkin, caramel, clove and nutmeg – marry well in harmony. They play well with the notes of toasted bread and crackers, along with a hint of fruity esters on the tail end. Interestingly, I only pick up earthy hops with a touch of floral notes in the flavor. Unfortunately, the bitterness of this beer just doesn't get along well with the other characters at this party. It is sharp and lingers long into the finish, making an otherwise pleasant and complex beer a little harsh on the finish. I have a feeling that this is something that the drinker will adapt to after the first or the second bottle, but it might be something you'll have to muscle through at first.