Looking for a creative beer combo to get you through the autumn evenings as they get chillier by the night? Why not try a Black & Boo (sometimes called a black & blumpkin). To prepare your black & boo, fill a glass 1/2-way with Shipyard Pumpkinhead ale (if Pumpkinhead isn’t readily available, any pumpkin flavored ale should do the trick), let the head settle, then SLOWLY pour a Guinness Drought over an upside-down tablespoon placed over the glass to create the layering effect made famous by the Black & Tan. The combination of the spices in a pumpkin wheat ale with the full-bodied, dry stout is perfect for the fall season. Why not give it a try?

Need a last minute go-to this evening? How about a great, easy-to-drink beer to get you through a full day of football or Red Sox/Yankees tomorrow? Than may I suggest Black Dog Ale from Spanish Peaks Brewing Co.

This English style amber ale has a rich, deep amber color–perfect for autumn–with a pleasant, but not overpowering hop aroma. Black Dog Ale has intriguing layers of malt character, which gives it a complex yet well balanced feel and maintains a high level of interest while remaining very highly drinkable (a must for a full day of football and undoubted nagging from the Mrs.).

Beer Profile:
OG: 13.2
ABV: 5.2%
Malts: Munich, Caramel 40, Caramel 80, Chocolate
Hops: Centennial, Northern Brewer, Chinook
IBUs: 36

Interesting side note: Chug, the black lab on the label, was the founder’s lab and the website claims Chug ”did his part expanding the enjoyment of this ale throughout Montana and beyond.” For more information on Black Dog Ale, Spanish Peaks Brewing Co. or where to get yours, visit www.blackdogales.com