Shipyard Brewing Co.
Portland, ME
Available: AZ, CO, GA, IL, IN, MN, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN
Shipyard, which grew out of the Kennebunkport Brewing Co. and Federal Jack’s Restaurant and Brew Pub, is the largest brewery in Maine.
ABV: 9
ABW: 7.5
Color: 14
Bitterness: 28
Original gravity: 1088
Alan Pugsley, a Brit brewing in Portland, ME, loyally declares the strength of this brew—be aware that it’s 9%! It’s straw-colored and the aroma, not surprisingly, is heavy with pumpkin but with a good balance of floral German Hallertau and American Willamette hops. Despite the strength, the palate is quite delicate, with pumpkin, sweet malt and light hops. The finish is a skillful balance of fruit, malt and hops and beats pumpkin soup out of sight.
Hazy deep gold with orange highlights, the beer sits under a thin, off-white foam. The aroma takes me aback—it doesn’t smell like any other pumpkin ale I’ve had. No hint of pie spices—instead something reminiscent of fennel, anise, dill and Dutch gin. The palate confounds as well. Full-bodied and slightly sweet, it’s also a bit tannic, a little acidic, a touch medicinal. I’m reminded more of naturally fermented cider than of pumpkins. The finish is off-dry and peppery. This is a fascinating drink. It has a medieval air about it and would be oddly enjoyable with holiday turkey.
Roger Protz is the author of Complete Guide to World Beer and 300 Beers to Try Before You Die. He is a respected beer authority and editor of the CAMRA Good Beer Guide.
Internationally recognized brewer and expert on traditional beer, Garrett Oliver is the brewmaster of the Brooklyn Brewery and the author of The Brewmaster's Table.
