Fall Beers Worth Every Single Calorie

by Marissa Stephenson

courtesy of the brands
courtesy of the brands

Pumpkin. Mocha. Caramel. Pecan. All the reasons your tastebuds love October, and sippable in these five seasonal brews. Yes, they've got more cals than a light beer. But you know what else does? Anything delicious.

Bring a six-pack to your next BYOB or cherry-pick one from that local bar with the amazing tap. You'll learn some serious craft brew cred.


Abita Pecan Harvest Ale
*
Tastes like: Caramel chews and roasted nuts, with a hoppy finish. Smells exactly like a slice of grandma's homemade pecan pie. And if we're talking calories, a bottle of this will run you 300 less than that.
* Pairs with: Chili, BBQ, or -- shocker -- a bowl of pecans.
* Alkie level: 5.1%
* Cal count: 150

See more: How to Lose Weight and Feel Great in 7 Days

Dogfish Head Punkin Ale
* Tastes like: Your favorite brown beer, but dusted with brown sugar and nutmeg, and simmered in a pumpkin. Hmmm.
* Pair it with: Anything hearty -- stews, brauts, casseroles -- and its sweetest will balance the savory.
* Alkie level: 7%
* Cal count: around 170, give or take

Left Hand Brewing Co. Warrior IPA
*
Tastes like: The drink equivalent of running through a farmers market in the rain at sunrise. Or: Malty, crisp, bright, with a touch of fruit and that bitter-hops kick.
* Pair it with: Nothing. Love on it solo, it's that good. And it only comes in a 22-ounce bottle, so it's pretty much a mini meal.
* Alkie level: 6.9%
* Cal count: 213 (for the 22-ouncer)

See more: 5 Simple Steps to Cellulite-Free Skin

Samuel Adams Octoberfest
*
Tastes like: Rich, roasted toffee with a hint of sweet, almost citrusy flavor. It doesn't feel heavy in the belly, so we won't fault you for doubling down.
* Pair it with: Pals. It's a great stand-alone beer for happy hour drinks or tailgating.
* Alkie level: 5.3%
* Cal count: 187

Full Sail Brewing Co. LTD 06 Black Bock
*Tastes like: Being wrapped in your favorite thick, cozy blanket. You'll get dark chocolate, fresh-roasted coffee, plus caramel and fig.
* Pair it with: Comfort desserts like bread pudding and pie. Decadence with decadence, we say.
* Alkie level: 7%
* Cal count: Around 170 cals, give or take

HOT TIP FOR THE TAP: Dying to know a beer's calorie count? Every 1% ABV (alcohol by volume) is equivalent to about 24 calories. Just don't let the math stop you from drinking good brews.

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