The Best Craft Beers to Try This Autumn: Cozy Sips for Crisp Evenings

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, autumn calls for beers that warm the soul and celebrate the season’s flavors. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire or hosting a harvest gathering, the right craft beer can elevate the experience. From malty barley wines to bold IPAs, this guide highlights the best autumn craft beers that deserve a spot in your glass.

At BrewDog, we believe every season deserves a beer that matches its mood. This fall, we’ve curated a selection of brews that bring out the best of autumn—think rich caramel notes, gentle spice, and satisfying depth. Let’s explore the top picks that will make your autumn evenings truly memorable.

Why Autumn Calls for Bold, Malty Brews

Autumn is the perfect time to transition from light, refreshing summer beers to fuller-bodied styles that offer warmth and complexity. The cooler weather invites sipping on beers with higher ABV and richer malt profiles, such as barley wines, stouts, and strong ales. These beers often feature notes of toffee, dark fruit, and roasted grains that pair beautifully with fall comfort foods.

Seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg also make appearances, but many craft drinkers prefer the natural malt sweetness and hop bitterness that define autumn’s best offerings. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Oktoberfest styles or experimental small batches, there’s a beer to satisfy every palate.

• Look for beers with ABV between 6% and 12% for that extra warmth.
• Pair malty brews with roasted meats, sharp cheeses, or dark chocolate desserts.
• Cellar your autumn beers at 50-55°F to preserve their complex flavors.

Top Autumn Craft Beer Picks from BrewDog

Our autumn lineup features standout brews that capture the essence of the season. The NanoDog Barley Wine is a must-try for anyone who loves deep, complex flavors. This limited-release barley wine offers layers of dried fruit, toffee, and a subtle oak character that evolves with every sip. At 10% ABV, it’s perfect for slow sipping on a chilly evening.

For those who prefer something with a hoppy kick, the ALD IPA delivers a bold burst of citrus and pine that cuts through the autumn richness. Its balanced bitterness and clean finish make it a versatile companion for hearty stews or roasted vegetables. Both beers highlight the craftsmanship that BrewDog is known for, and they’re ideal for building a seasonal mixed pack.

• NanoDog Barley Wine: best enjoyed in a snifter glass to concentrate the aromas.
• ALD IPA: pair with sharp cheddar or spicy chili for a flavor contrast.
• Store both in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.

How to Build the Perfect Autumn Beer Collection

Creating a seasonal beer collection is a rewarding way to explore autumn’s diversity. Start with a strong barley wine as the centerpiece, then add a well-crafted IPA for contrast. Consider including a non-alcoholic option like LOST AF for those who want to enjoy the flavors without the alcohol. This IPA-style NA beer is crisp and hoppy, making it a great choice for designated drivers or mindful drinking.

Don’t forget to include a personal touch for gift-giving. The CONGRATS - Personalised beer is perfect for celebrating autumn milestones, from harvest parties to Thanksgiving dinners. Personalizing a bottle with a message or name adds a unique touch that any craft beer lover will appreciate. A mixed pack of these selections ensures you have something for every occasion.

• Include at least one high-ABV beer for sipping and one sessionable beer for casual drinking.
• Add a personalise beer to make your collection gift-ready.
• Use a variety of glassware to enhance each beer’s aroma and flavor.

Pairing Autumn Beers with Seasonal Foods

Autumn’s harvest offers a bounty of flavors that pair beautifully with craft beer. Rich barley wines complement roasted meats like pork or lamb, while IPAs cut through the creaminess of butternut squash soup. For dessert, try a barley wine with apple pie or a stout with pumpkin cheesecake. The key is to match intensity: bold beers need bold dishes.

If you’re hosting a fall gathering, set up a beer and cheese board featuring aged gouda, blue cheese, and a sharp cheddar. The NanoDog Barley Wine’s caramel notes enhance the nuttiness of gouda, while the ALD IPA’s citrusy hops brighten the funk of blue cheese. Experiment with pairings to find your favorite combinations.

• Serve barley wine slightly below room temperature (55-60°F) for optimal flavor.
• IPAs are best enjoyed cold (45-50°F) to preserve hop aromas.
• Rinse your glass between pours to avoid flavor mixing.

This autumn, elevate your beer experience with BrewDog’s carefully crafted seasonal selections. Whether you’re savoring a NanoDog Barley Wine by the fire or sharing a personalise beer with friends, these brews are made for the season. Explore our full autumn collection and find your new favorite fall companion today.