Product: Fisherman’s Pumpkin Stout: With its Pumpkin Finish and Deep Color, This Could Be The Perfect Fall Brew Producer: Cape Ann Brewing Company Approximate Retail Value: $7.99 for 6 12oz bottles Category: Beer Country of Origin: Gloucester, MA, USA Reviewer: Jon Costantino The F Words: Flavor – Spicy, Nutty and Fruity Feel – Smooth and Light Finish – Delicious and Refreshing

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Usually, there are no two beers that scare casual drinkers more than Pumpkin Ales and Stouts. For most, both are heavy beers that most bar hoppers would even think of putting in their glass. Luckily, Cape Ann Brewing has managed to mix the two together in a recipe that brings out the best in both beers.

When you first smell the Pumpkin Stout, the first think you’ll notice is how subdued the pumpkin flavor is. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg are what truly take over, and will take you away to Thanksgiving and Halloween nights of yesteryear. Once you sip it, the pumpkin really comes through, and it is truly refreshing. The taste is so light, you almost forget you’re drinking a stout. The beer has an excellent velvet finish, and leaves no bitter aftertaste. In fact, since this is a Seasonal beer for fall, it has almost none of the usually chocolate trapping that most post-September beers have. It is crisp and, when served cold, it is one of the better ales you will have all year regardless of season.

Cape Ann prides themselves that their Pumpkin Stout is not like the usual “pumpkin pie” ales on the market, and they are 100% right. While most in this genre are trying to squeeze dessert into a bottle, Cape Ann has tried to make a craft beer that stands out above the rest. This beer is also hard to come by, so if you see it at your local bar, or manage to find a case near you, don’t hesitate to pick one up.