Dear Saint Arnold's Army:

Do you believe in the Great Pumpkin? Do you believe in Santa Claus? Sure, Lucy thought Linus was confusing the two, but both are coming soon in some form from us.

Pumpkinator will be released on Thursday, October 13

We were hoping for a Friday the 13th but had to settle for Thursday the 13th. Pumpkinator is a big, black, full of spice, full of flavor beer. Originally released in 2009 as Divine Reserve No. 9, it is an imperial pumpkin stout and our answer to how a pumpkin beer ought to taste. This year's version comes in at 10% ABV. It is brewed with a combination of pale two row, caramel and black malts, Cascade and Liberty hops for a background hop flavor, pumpkin for a rich mouthfeel, molasses and brown sugar, and spiced and dry-spiced to make it feel like you just walked into your mom's kitchen while she was cooking 37 pumpkin pies. It is the most expensive beer we have brewed. It is a single batch release and only in 22 oz. bottles (sharing recommended!). It probably won't be on the shelves for too long.

This beer is best enjoyed at 50°F or warmer to bring out the spices and round body. Personally we have found it to be the perfect end to a Thanksgiving meal from a flavor standpoint. Some have said it makes relatives more enjoyable too.

The labels are dated with 2011 as this beer should age well for those willing to do so. Aging them cold is the best way to do this if you have the ability. If not, time to get a beer fridge!