Shipyard Brewing Company’s Smashed Pumpkin immediately announces its presence with a robust pumpkin aroma. It’s not subtle, and that’s a good thing. This beer doesn’t tiptoe around its identity; it wears it with pride.
Shipyard’s Smashed Pumpkin sets itself apart with its aging process. Three months in oak staves from Buffalo Trace and Woodford Reserve Bourbon barrels impart a depth that’s hard to find in other pumpkin ales. The meticulous hand-labeling of each can by Shipyard Brewing Co. is a commendable touch, detailing the year, barrel number, and aging location. It speaks to the brewery’s commitment to quality and the consumer’s experience.
When tasting the beer, a thick mouthfeel and a rich blend of sweet pumpkin flavors are present. Its deep orange visual is a direct nod to its pumpkin origins. And the Bourbon barrel aging? It’s evident. A distinct alcoholic note comes through, which might be jarring for some. Initially, I found it a tad overpowering. However, as I progressed through the can, perhaps influenced by the beer’s strength, my perspective shifted. Woodford Reserve’s touch, a personal favorite bourbon of mine, might be playing its part here. To put it simply, “You’re drinking a bourbon-spiked pumpkin beer; let it ride.”
In conclusion, Shipyard’s Smashed Pumpkin is a beer that commands attention. It’s a bold blend of flavors, craftsmanship, and a dash of bourbon bravado. A standout in a sea of pumpkin ales, it’s a beer experience that lingers, and for all the right reasons.
- Style: Strong Pumpkin Spice Ale
- ABV: 10.5 %
- IBUs: 35
- Available: Seasonal
- Hops: Saphir, Willamette
- Malts: Pale Ale, Whole Wheat, Munich Light
- Brewer: Shipyard Brewing Company, Portland, Maine-based Family-owned craft beer brewery
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