Athletic Dark & Gourdy Pumpkin & Spice

Dark & Gourdy Pumpkin & Spice is a seasonal pumpkin beer from Athletic. The name and category tell us what to expect: a dark-hued ale built around pumpkin and autumn baking spice. The details provided don't list an ABV, IBU or tasting notes, so what follows describes the style in general terms and not this beer's measured profile. Pumpkin beers of this kind usually pair a toasty, caramel-leaning malt base with cinnamon, nutmeg, clove or allspice, and sometimes a note of pumpkin pie crust or roasted squash. Hop bitterness is normally kept low so the spice and malt stay in front. Expect a rounded, gently sweet-and-spicy profile, not a sharp or hoppy one. The "Dark" in the name suggests a deeper malt character, so look for hints of toast, brown sugar or light roast. Serve it cold but not ice-cold, around 6 to 8°C (43 to 46°F). Spiced beers lose their aroma when over-chilled, and a few minutes out of the fridge lets the cinnamon and nutmeg come forward. A nonic pint, tulip or snifter-style glass works well because it gathers the spice aromatics. A standard pint glass is fine if that's what you have. Pour with a moderate head so some of the aroma is released, and leave any sediment in the bottle or can unless you want a fuller body. At the table, this style suits food with similar autumn flavors. Roast pork or turkey with sage and root vegetables works well, as do butternut squash soup, sausages with mustard, and aged cheddar or gouda. For sweeter pairings, try it with pecan pie, gingerbread or a baked apple. The spice complements the dessert's flavors and the malt keeps it from tasting overly sweet. Because the style is seasonal, it fits best with cooler-weather meals and gatherings. If you're unsure about pumpkin beer, a small pour alongside a savory dish is an easy way to try it.