This was very tough to write considering all of the great brews that were to be had at the Autumn Brew Review. Although it was wet and the line to get in was long, beer lovers were rewarded with some of the best fall offerings around. Here is my top five list of beers from ABR:

5. Mole Midnight Ryder by Indeed Brewing - At first sip this one seemed to have a little too much heat, but the warm chocolate and cinnamon notes came through over time and helped this cask ale to achieve one of the top five spots.

4. El Hefe Negro by Surly Brewing - A very enjoyable and unique brew that was subtly sweet with that familiar banana clove flavor and kicked in the mouth with a dry hop addition. Something, it would seem, that only Surly could pull off.

3. Barrel Aged Saison Nourrice by Harriet Brewing - A slightly fruity and dry Farmhouse Ale aged in Chardonnay barrels with a subtle sourness to it that was certainly gratifying. This is sure to be a favorite of Harriet Tap Room goers.

2. Nitro Cold Press Black with Whole Bean Madagascar Vanilla by Bent Paddle Brewing - Certainly the best coffee beer at the festival and with a beautiful kick of vanilla beans. What really set this one apart from everything else was the velvety texture. Smooth and creamy from the nitrogen and wonderful roasted flavor from the Duluth Coffee Co. cold press coffee.

1. Royal Pale India Ale by Town Hall Brewery - The best use of hops at the festival goes to Town Hall for this brew. Citrusy Mosaic hops hit you in the face right away but the beer finishes nice and clean unlike some IPA’s out there. A world class beer, without a doubt.

A few notes from ABR:

Castle Danger Brewing is aiming to have their taproom open by spring, according to owner Clint MacFarlane. Soon after, they plan to begin canning their beer to be sold in 6-packs.

Town Hall Brewery will be temporarily closing for renovation this winter, sometime after the holidays.

Indeed Brewing will be releasing both Stir Crazy and a Holiday Ale this winter.

Cheers!