The Breckenridge Autumn Ale has become one of my favorite Fall beers. Autumn seems to be the time of year when you want something to warm you up a bit, something with a little extra flavor. But I feel like a lot of the seasonal beers that come out in September and October are a little over the top – sometimes too sweet, other times too malty. The Breckenridge Autumn, however, is just right.

The more complete name of the beer is the After Rakin’ Autumn Ale, which along with the colors on the label, drew me in right away because of how strongly it evoked Fall. I’ll admit – the packaging sold me. But this beer is tasty. Breckenridge mix German lager malty-ness with American ale cleanness. The two styles combined result in a beer with subtleties, and that seems appropriate for the season. It’s cooler outside, and you can smell a hint of leaves on the air. The Breckenridge Autumn Ale is the beer equivalent of that feeling.

The brewery describes the ale: “Brewed with Munich malts and a delicate blend of Bavarian hops, it’s a full-bodied treat with a nutty-sweet middle, a warming alcohol level and notes of toasted grains.” But I think the subtitle on the bottle says it best: “Warms the soul. Soothes the spirit.”

Enjoy this one outside if it’s leaf-color-season where you live, or if it isn’t. Pick it up soon though – it’s only available in September and October.