It's October 1st, which means it's time for 31 Pumpkins! (aka, one woman's quest to drink and rate a different pumpkin beer every day during the month of October)
This year is the 10th anniversary of this pumpkin-y pursuit. And back in 2013 was the only time I finished the challenge, so I have good if spooky vibes for this year's effort.
Before we get going, a quick reminder of the Pumpkin Quotient, or PQ Scale, ranging in score from -5 to +5 with a score of zero being perfect.
-5 = Where's the pumpkin?
5 = Like licking a Yankee Candle
The first selection packs a wallop: The Headless Gourdsman, by Founders Brewing in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Aged in bourbon barrels finished in maple syrup, this beer packs a punch at 13% ABV. Lots of flavor, though it's that maple flavor that dominates over anything pumpkin spice.
The Headless Gourdsman: -3