They are little heard of on these shores, but pumpkin beers released in time for Halloween are big business in the US with many of the countries 1600-odd breweries releasing one of these seasonal brews.

Murray’s Craft Brewery is one of the first local brewers to dabble with the style and this weekend will release their second Pumpkin ale. The brewers describe the beer as “a spiced ale – basically pumpkin pie in a glass.”

The beer is built on British and German Malts, but then more than 50kg of dry roasted pumpkin is added to the mash. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and pumpkin aroma and flavour that is enhanced by the spice additions. Cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice are added late in the boil which the brewer says blend well with the malt character of this unique beer that is enhanced by the spice additions.

This is Murray’s second pumpkin ale outing and last year’s sold out in record time.

The beer will be available from Sat 30 October at the brewery, and;

• the Taphouses in Sydney and Melbourne,
• Beer Deluxe Melbourne,
• Biero bar Melbourne
• and if there is any left, the Bitter and Twisted Festival, Maitland.

Check with these local venues for their release dates!

The beer launch coincides with Murray’s annual Halloween Spectacular, being held this Sunday 31 October, with kids activities from midday. The brewery advises the event will be held rain, hail or shine – with additional marquee covering if it rains ensuring the day will run for maximum scary fun.

The event has free entry, trick or treat, apple bobbing and pumpkin bowling. Prizes will be offered for the best costumes.

www.murraysbrewingco.com.au

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