FOOD & BEVERAGE With Fall comes a drinking experience that complements the season's comfort foods

As the days cool and the leaves start to turn, there's something special about early fall that every craft beer lover can feel. It's that sweet spot between summer's last golden rays and autumn's crisp embrace, where flavours begin to shift and our palates follow suit

Fall is a sensory treat, with rich colours, cozy vibes, and the comforting aromas of spiced foods and brews in the air. For craft beer fans, it's a time to explore and indulge, moving from the lighter beers of summer to the more robust, flavourful brews of autumn. Early fall is my favourite for beer and food pairings, thanks to seasonal ingredients that reflect the harvest. Brewers start adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves think of the spiced desserts popping up on our tables. Pumpkin ales, often brewed with real pumpkin and a mix of autumn spices, offer a sweet, earthy flavour that pairs perfectly with roasted meats, hearty stews, or even a slice of pumpkin pie

Are you ready to shift gears (and your palate) into fall? Try this Dunkel from Paris Beer Co. It’s local, refreshing and gives you all the fall cozy vibes.

Photo by Tiffany Martin

But it's not just about Pumpkin Ales. Fall is when maltier beers shine. Märzen, the traditional German Oktoberfest beer, brings its toasty, caramel notes, while Brown Ales, with their nutty, caramelized profiles, offer a smooth, rich drinking experience that complements the season's comfort foods and let’s not forget Dunkels, Stouts and Porters showing up in more numbers for the fall and winter. Though I am known to enjoy those year-round... This transition period is also great for enjoying saisons and farmhouse ales. With their fruity and spicy character, they bridge the gap between summer's bright beers and the darker, more intense beers of late fall. Their versatility makes them a perfect match for a variety of fall dishes, from grilled vegetables to roasted chicken.

As we welcome the changing season, there's no better way to celebrate than with a craft beer in hand, surrounded by the vibrant colours and flavours of fall. So, keep your eyes peeled locally for some upcoming treats and whether you're sipping a crisp Märzen at Oktoberfest or enjoying a Dunkel at Paris Beer Co or a Stout by the fire, early fall offers a unique chance to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of flavours that craft beer brings. Cheers to the season!

Tiffany is a Paris woman who has a love an appreciation for all things ‘hoppy’! As an experienced traveler, with a love of beer, Tiffany shares her knowledge to help others unlock their love of craft beer.