Year after year, I’ve revisited Flying Dog Brewery’s The Fear Imperial Pumpkin Ale, always leaving it unreviewed due to my previous disinterest. However, something changed with this year’s batch. Whether it’s a tweak in the brewing process or a shift in my own tastes after sampling so many pumpkin beers, I found myself appreciating it anew. The usual bitterness in the finish seemed toned down, yet it retained a rich, robust body with subtle undertones of pumpkin and spice. It deftly masks its 9% ABV well, making the drinking experience surprisingly smooth.
Dark, rich black ales aren’t usually something that I pick from the shelves, but The Fear has grown on me. It’s compelling enough that I wouldn’t hesitate to order another round. It’s proof of its solid construction as an imperial pumpkin ale, which I look forward to revisiting every year. The 2024 batch gets a definite thumbs up. With a blend of Carabrown, Midnight Wheat, Chocolate, and Vienna malts, complemented by Warrior and Willamette hops, this brew skillfully balances a spice-forward profile without tipping into overt sweetness. Here’s to more pleasant surprises in the seasons to come!
- Style: Imperial Pumpkin Ale
- ABV: 9 %
- IBUs: 45
- Brewer: FX Matt Brewing Company, based in Utica, New York, is a family-owned brewery
Read our blog post “A Fluid List: The Best Pumpkin Beers Ranked,” to find out where The Fear Imperial Pumpkin Ale, ranks in our top pumpkin beers list.
