Mighty Vine
Skaneateles Brewery

this is super good, one of my favorites from these guys so far. its highly spiced, but it also reminds me that its not a lot of spices that turn me off in these, within reason, its a lot of spices with a lot of sweetness, and even though this has a nice sturdy malt base, its on the dry side for the style, so it works. there is also a nice balance to this, and its really complex compared to many in this space, i like everything about it. very deep amber color to this, a little richer looking than many, and it has the body along with it. its made with actual pumpkins which is always nice, not just relying on spice, i do get a sort of butternut or acorn squash thing to the flavor, right in the middle and again at the end, that must come from the pumpkin, but its subtle. the spice profile is the same in aroma and flavor, and in front of brown sugar and vanilla nuance, there is clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg to me, perhaps allspice too, a light maple hint in the grain but again not too sugary at the end, even some earthy bitterness which helps the finish. some might say too many spices here, i think its right on, drinkability is high in a celebratory fall context, there is a little meat on the bone here which i like, and its nice and smooth and hearty to drink on. cinnamon makes it kind of warming, very pleasant and distinct mix of flavors, i think they nailed it! one of my favorite pumpkin beers of the year this year, maybe my singular favorite!