It is true that New Belgium Pumpkick has been discontinued by the brewery. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze this beer, and I must say that it is a shame to see it go. Pumpkick was a seasonal release from New Belgium Brewing Company, known for its unique blend of flavors and vibrant pumpkin spice profile.
I remember the first time I tried Pumpkick, it was during the fall season when pumpkin beers were all the rage. The beer poured a beautiful deep amber color, with a slight haze, and a frothy off-white head that lingered for a while. The aroma was intoxicating, with strong notes of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It was like being transported to a cozy autumn day, surrounded by the comforting scents of a pumpkin pie baking in the oven.
Upon taking my first sip, I was immediately struck by the balance of flavors in Pumpkick. The pumpkin was not overpowering, but rather complemented by the subtle sweetness of caramel malts and the warmth of the spices. The cinnamon and nutmeg added a delightful complexity, giving the beer a pleasant spiciness without being overwhelming. The finish was clean and crisp, with just a hint of bitterness to round out the experience.
One of the things that set Pumpkick apart from other pumpkin beers was the addition of cranberries. This unexpected twist added a tartness and brightness to the overall flavor profile, making the beer incredibly refreshing and easy to drink. It was the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a great choice for those who wanted something a little different from the traditional pumpkin offerings.
Unfortunately, like many seasonal beers, Pumpkick was only available for a limited time each year. It became a highly anticipated release among beer enthusiasts, as it signaled the arrival of autumn and the start of pumpkin beer season. However, as tastes and trends in the beer industry evolve, breweries are constantly reassessing their lineup and making changes to meet consumer demand.
While it is disappointing to see Pumpkick discontinued, it is not uncommon for breweries to retire seasonal offerings in favor of new and exciting beers. This allows them to experiment with different flavors and styles, keeping their lineup fresh and appealing to a wide range of consumers. It also creates a sense of anticipation and excitement, as beer drinkers eagerly await the next seasonal release.
In the case of Pumpkick, I believe it was a beer that truly captured the essence of fall. Its blend of pumpkin, spices, and cranberries created a unique and memorable drinking experience. It was a beer that brought people together, whether it was shared at a holiday gathering or enjoyed on a crisp autumn evening. Its discontinuation may leave a void for those who loved its distinct flavors, but it also opens the door for new and innovative beers to take its place.
New Belgium Pumpkick has been discontinued by the brewery. This seasonal beer was known for its vibrant pumpkin spice profile, balanced flavors, and the addition of cranberries. While its discontinuation may be disappointing to some, it is a common practice for breweries to retire seasonal offerings and introduce new beers to keep their lineup fresh and exciting.