Shipyard Smashed Pumpkin Imperial Pumpkin Spice Ale
A bold and full-bodied beer, Shipyard Smashed Pumpkin is the bigger, richer sibling to the brewery’s classic Pumpkinhead Ale. This Imperial Pumpkin Ale is a seasonal sensation, offering a powerful, spiced flavor profile that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. It's a must-have for any pumpkin beer enthusiast looking for a stronger, more complex experience.
A Story of American Craft Beer
Shipyard Brewing Company, a family-owned brewery in Portland, Maine, has been a pioneer in the American craft beer movement since its founding in 1994. Known for its dedication to quality and innovative brews, Shipyard has a long history of creating celebrated seasonal beers. Smashed Pumpkin, part of the brewery's "Pugsley's Signature Series," was first released in 2009. It was designed to be an imperial-strength version of their popular Pumpkinhead, offering a richer, higher-ABV take on the classic fall flavor.
Key Features
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Imperial Strength: Brewed to a formidable 9.0% ABV, providing a warming and full-bodied experience.
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Balanced Spice & Malt: Crafted with a blend of Pale Ale, Wheat, and Light Munich malts to create a sturdy backbone that perfectly complements the natural pumpkin and spice.
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Classic Fall Spices: Brewed with an authentic blend of nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices to deliver a genuine pumpkin pie aroma and flavor.
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Distinctive Hops: The delicate spiciness of Saphir and Willamette hops balances the sweetness of the fruit and malt.
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Seasonal Release: A highly anticipated fall seasonal that’s perfect for cool weather and holiday gatherings.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: An inviting and pleasing aroma of sweet pumpkin and nutmeg, with hints of cinnamon and gingerbread.
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Palate: A big-bodied and creamy mouthfeel with rich flavors of caramel, roasted pumpkin, and toasted nuts. The prominent pumpkin pie spices are well-balanced by the malty sweetness, creating a dessert-like, yet drinkable profile.
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Finish: A long, smooth, and warming finish with lingering notes of cinnamon, allspice, and a touch of earthiness.
Awards & Acclaim
Shipyard Smashed Pumpkin has earned a strong reputation among beer enthusiasts and critics alike. Past releases have been recognized with significant awards, including Grand Champion and Best of the Northeast at the 2012 United States Beer Tasting Championships. It has also taken home Bronze Medals from the Australian International Beer Awards in both 2011 and 2012, solidifying its status as a world-class imperial pumpkin ale.
The Overall Expression: A Big-Bodied Autumnal Treat
Smashed Pumpkin is an impressive and powerful beer that delivers on its imperial promise. It takes the familiar comfort of a pumpkin ale and elevates it with a stronger alcohol content and a richer, more complex flavor. This is not just a beer; it’s an experience—perfect for sipping by the bonfire, pairing with a hearty meal, or simply celebrating the flavors of the season. It’s the definitive choice for anyone who believes that when it comes to fall flavors, bigger is definitely better.
