The Drowned Lands Scythe Pumpkin Ale is flawless and easily one of my top pumpkin beers in our Fluid List of the Best Pumpkin Beers Ranked.
This ale stands out as a refined, well-rounded example of a pumpkin beer, capturing the essence of fall with depth and restraint. Pouring a warm, vibrant copper-orange, it greets you with an aroma of fresh pumpkin pie spices that feels like a cozy embrace. Lively carbonation balances its smooth, slightly creamy texture, creating a soft, easy-to-drink mouthfeel.
Crafted with a thoughtful mix of Vienna, Munich, Biscuit, Red Wheat, and Spelt malts, Scythe develops subtle notes of toasted bread and biscuit, almost like the crust of a pumpkin pie. This malt foundation supports real pumpkin and a careful blend of spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove—added after fermentation. The spice profile is bold but refined, giving warmth and complexity to each sip without ever overwhelming or turning syrupy.
One of the most remarkable qualities is its finish. Instead of coating your palate, it dries out gently, leaving just enough spice and malt character to make you want another sip. At 5.7% ABV, it’s approachable yet satisfying—substantial enough for cool fall evenings but not too heavy for a casual afternoon pint.
The Drowned Lands has achieved a rare balance: a pumpkin ale that is festive and flavorful while remaining endlessly drinkable. Instead of recommending Scythe Pumpkin Ale, I’m going to tell you that I buy it season after season for the pure joy of drinking it—right up until the day it disappears from the shelves.
- Style: Pumpkin Ale
- ABV: 5.7 %
- IBUs: N/A
- Seasonal: Fall (Limited Release)
- Brewer: The Drowned Lands Brewery, located in Warwick, New York, is a craft farm brewery known for its terroir-driven approach. They emphasize brewing with locally sourced grains and ingredients, producing small-batch beers that reflect both seasonality and place. The brewery’s focus on mixed fermentation, foeder aging, and thoughtful recipes has made it a standout in the craft scene.
