October is, arguably, the best time to sample some new brews. I know guys, and some gals, who are so loyal to their own brand of everyday beer that the thought of trying something new, or even the suggestion of it, sends them reeling. If you've found your favorite brand of beer and are sticking to it, great, but let's think outside the case, or, uh, box, for a second.

So, let's kick back for a minute (with a bottle opener) and review some of the seasonal beers that this time of year offers:

According to Jim Burma, Jr., Sales Operation Manager for Dakota Beverage in Sioux Falls, Sam Adam's Octoberfest was one of the best sellers in the city. However, you've got to move fast if your going to stock up because Sam Adam's Winter Lager will be here next week.

The changing of the seasons is a perfect time to enjoy a fall lager. There's a little something for everybody's taste"

Jim also said that Blue Moon Pumpkin Ale is a popular beer for Autumn. Keep a few of these on ice for your Halloween party. It's sure to be a hit!

August Schell Oktoberfest is brewed just once a year. Brewed with the perfect balance of Pale, Munich, and Cara Pils malt with Liberty and Perle hops to create a rich, smooth taste.

According to Chad at Hy Vee Wine and Spirits on 26th and Sycamore, it was quite hard to beat Sam Adams Octoberfest beer for sales again this year. Shock Top Belgian White a Belgian-Style Wheat Ale was also a big seller.

Another great beer for the Fall season (and I've tried it) is Shiner Octoberfest, a beer by Spoetzl Brewery located in Shiner, Texas.

I'm not ready to toss my Summer Shandy out of the fridge yet, but it would be impossible to write about the great variety of Fall brews available without paying a well-deserved tribute to the awesomeness of Leinenkugel's Oktoberfest. The legend of the Northwoods, is brewed in Chippewa falls, Wisconsin, and is available at a liquor store near you.

These beers will be harder to find in the coming weeks as the stores are preparing for the new shipments of Winter ales. I, for one, am looking forward to Schell's Snowstorm. It's a little heavier than the aforementioned beers, but it's perfect for, well, a snowstorm.

I hope this gives you a few ideas on what to try this Fall season. If you have a favorite, let us know by commenting below, or, sample a few of the local favorites from our Facebook fans:

Jodi - Blue Moon Pumpkin harvest

Jenny - Old Chicago's Pumpkin Beer

Jason - Leinenkugel's Sunset Wheat

Nikki - Shock Top Pumpkin Wheat

Becca - Angry Orchard

Finally, the photo I've chosen for the cover story? I must've pondered over at least 50 shots of lonely looking beer mugs against various backdrops. I don't know what it was about this one that stood out.

 

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