I've decided that I'm not going to get depressed about summer's end this year. Contrary to my previous, multi-decade track record of emotional attachment to fleeting heat, outdoor dining and dirt digging, I've decided that this is the year I embrace the other three seasons, beginning with fall.
I'm investing in my own "seasonal change survival kit." At this point, it's mostly craft beer. But throw in a kick-ass Halloween costume, few fuzzy sweaters, a pair of thick tights and the new season of "The Office," and I'm sure I'll be fine ... at least until the holidays.
It's difficult to watch the days get shorter, but I also recognize and appreciate what autumn brings to the table: amazing colors, fresh smells and crisp tastes, which brings me back to all the craft beer that's finding its way to the shelves as a peace offering of sorts from the impending chill in the air.
OK, so here are my five faves. Anything I'm missing?
Samuel Adams Octoberfest -- This one was a wonderful surprise, maybe because the brewery is so large? Nevertheless, its homage to Oktoberfest is hardy and sweet enough to be distinct, but not overly so, thanks to the addition of Noble Bavarian hops.
Rogue Juniper Pale Ale -- This one is a four-time world champion; can that many beer drinkers be wrong? Made by Rogue Brewery, Juniper is pretty hoppy and will go great with all those Thanksgiving starches.
Smuttynose Pumpkin Ale -- Unlike most pumpkin beers that overdo it with sugar and spice (and it's not all that nice), Smuttynose gets it right with a delicate balance of amber ale and autumnal flavors.
Sierra Nevada Harvest Ale -- The Bomb Shelter recently had a Sierra Nevada tasting at it Suds Club and the Harvest Ale was a stand out. It boasts the use of wet hops over dry, which means an invariably fresher hop.
Breckenridge Autumn Ale -- It's rich, nutty and malty and perfect to sip while leaves fall and football reigns the weekends.
OnMilwaukee.com staff writer Julie Lawrence grew up in Wauwatosa and has lived her whole life in the Milwaukee area.
As any “word nerd” can attest, you never know when inspiration will strike, so from a very early age Julie has rarely been seen sans pen and little notebook. At the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee it seemed only natural that she major in journalism. When OnMilwaukee.com offered her an avenue to combine her writing and the city she knows and loves in late 2004, she knew it was meant to be. Around the office, she answers to a plethora of nicknames, including “Lar,” (short for “Larry,” which is short for “Lawrence”) as well as the mysteriously-sourced “Bill Murray.”
