When the temperature starts dropping and the days get shorter, autumn is on its way. For some of us, fall could easily be renamed “pumpkin spice season.” And although thoughts tend to turn toward pumpkin beers, the Show-Me State likes to get creative with its fall beverages.
Wine
In early fall, Hemman Winery in Brazeau gets busy cutting up pumpkins for a small, very special batch of wine made from 100 percent pumpkin. Since none of the traditional pie spices are added, it has the aroma of a fresh-carved pumpkin, but the flavor is mellower – more like a honeydew melon. It’s available now, but you’d better not wait – it’s very popular.
Wenwood Farm Winery‘s Pumpkin Pie wine is a new family tradition. A semi-sweet white with a kiss of pumpkin pie is slightly spicy, rich with cinnamon and has just the right amount of sweetness. It’s being released September 20 at the Jefferson City area winery.
Tea & Coffee
At Anna Marie’s Teas in Liberty, Pumpkin Bread Rooibos takes center stage. The special fall and winter blend includes currants, ginger, safflower and just the right amount of pumpkin gingerbread spice. It brews up into a tea that is smooth, rich and full-bodied. It’s also rich in anti-oxidants and naturally caffeine-free.
Big Momma’s Coffee in Springfield gets into the spirit of the season with a big punch. Their Pumpkin King Latte contains two shots of espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin spice and cinnamon.
Lakota Coffee Company in Columbia has you covered whether you like to brew your own – with their Pumpkin Spice Flavored Coffee Beans – or order a Pumpkin Spice Latte Espresso Drink served up hot and fresh.
Messenger Coffee in Kansas City just released their Butternut Squash Latte, slightly lighter flavor but definitely pumpkin-like!
Kaldi’s Coffee Roasting Co, with locations in St. Louis, Kansas City and Columbia, combines two flavor sensations in one amazing beverage: a Baked Maple Pumpkin Latte (made with real pumpkin).
Beer
You didn’t think we’d just ignore fall’s favorite beer, did you? O’Fallon Brewery is the king of pumpkin beers in Missouri with six different versions spanning a variety of flavors and styles. This year, you can pick up a bottled pumpkin variety pack to take home.
And it’s not alone in providing the Show-Me State with its preferred autumn beverages. Schlafly Brewing Company in St. Louis’ Pumpkin Ale is available now in tap rooms and in stores. It’s hailed as one of the best beers of its kind, it’s the reason why fall is your favorite season.
Crown Valley Brewing & Distilling in Ste. Genevieve offers Imperial Pumpkin Smash Stout starting in late September/early October. This deliciously roasted beer features dark chocolate and toffee notes with a hint of smoke and a little spice from the hops that give it a pine note. The pumpkin adds body & character for a great beer.
And be sure to try Mr. Pumpkin from Mother’s Brewing Co. in Springfield, a smooth and not overly sweet pumpkin ale that’s brewed for beer lovers. It’s available now in the tap room.