Seasonal & Limited-Edition Beers

By Denise Shoukas

Denise Shoukas is a regular foodspring.com contributor and is the author of foodspring’s food forager blog.

Summer is the ideal time for cold beer. This year, bypass the typical options and check out these limited-edition and seasonal choices. Plus, take a seat while enjoying your favorite brew with the "Keg Stool" (see sidebar on right).

Dogfish Head Selection, Bitches Brew

Dogfish Brewery’s Bitches Brew will debut in late August to commemorate the original release of the milestone album Bitches Brew by jazz legend Miles Davis. The bold, dark beer, which is a fusion of imperial stout and honey beer with gesho root, will feature labels with the album cover artwork.

Buffalo Bill's Brewery, Orange Blossom Cream Ale

For a refreshing brew, try the seasonal Buffalo Bill’s Orange Blossom Cream Ale Reminiscent of Orange Crush, it exudes a soft orange flavor that is ideal for picnic fare or summer salads.

Goose Island, Barrel-aged beers

While most beer is packaged and released after a short conditioning period, barrel aged beers sleep away in barrels and casks for months or even years; the oak works the same magic as it does on wine, integrating components, softening rough edges and imparting vanilla, toast, spice and other notes. Check out Goose Island’s barrel-aged beers: Bourbon County Coffee Stout, Bourbon County Vanilla Stout and Rare Bourbon County Stout, aged in 25-year-old Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon barrels.