Punkin Ale is a Pumpkin Ale brewed by Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, and for the purposes of this craft beer review, was served in a nonic pint glass from a 12 oz. bottle.
Packaging art for the Punkin Ale by Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
What You Need to Know
For more than two decades Dogfish Head has been putting out this autumn favorite. The base of the beer is an American Brown Ale and then loaded with pumpkin, sugar, and spices. So how was it? Let’s get to the review.
Appearance
The ale pours a crystal-clear orange copper topped by a thick cap of dense cream-colored foam that shows modest retention. As the head reduces a soapy ring of residue gathers at the collar of the glass.
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Aroma
Fragrant nose offers a spicy scent of cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, clove, and booze. A hint of toasty bread appears in the background.
Flavor
Bready malt, toffee, and nut lead the palate towards a taste of pumpkin and warming alcohol. Finishes dryly with cinnamon, a bite of lemon, herbal hops and more booze. An underlying taste of baked bread permeates the palate.
Label art for the Punkin Ale by Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
Mouthfeel
The feel seems a bit thin having a medium-light body and a little less-than-moderate carbonation.
Overall
Those seeking a pumpkin-flavored beer might be disappointed with Punkin Ale’s judicious use but that does allow other flavors in this complex palate their place. However, the booze is just too strong and nearly overwhelms the ale’s aroma and taste. Dogfish Head’s Punkin Ale is adequate but there are better pumpkin beers available.
Recommended Pairings
Dogfish Head recommends the following food pairings with their Punkin Ale: turkey, roasted duck, lamb, stuffing, and dessert dumplings.
Watch the Video
For more on the Punkin Ale, check out this video from Dogfish Head:
