Beer of the Week

The beer: Fest Bier

Brewed by: Brothers Craft Brewing, Harrisonburg, Virginia

Description (from the website): "Fest Bier perfectly captures the transition into autumn, shifting from the crisp light Lagers of summer to a slightly darker, heartier Lager that is perfect for the changing seasons.  Traditionally brewed to be enjoyed during the long, hard working German harvest season, Fest Bier is the perfect fit for our local community and easily enjoyed by drinkers of all walks of life.  Whether you are hanging on to every last bit of summer or welcoming fall, Fest Bier is the perfect way to celebrate."

Would I buy it again?: It's not bad, but it's way too hoppy for an Oktoberfest-style beer. I prefer a more malty flavor, so I'll pass on looking for this beer again.

Some Food Just Shouldn't Be Halloween-ified

This wouldn't ordinarily be something I'd weigh in on, but a big ramen noodle company is making pumpkin spice ramen this year. It's kind of funny that this made the news this year, because pumpkin spice ramen has already been a thing for at least a year. I know, I've had it, which is why I have an opinion on the subject beyond "oh, that's kind of weird and probably gross." Admittedly, when I did try it, I didn't think it was the worst thing in the world, but it was a big party situation (yes, I go to the sort of parties where people bring pumpkin spice ramen) and I was rather drunk at the time. My taste buds were not operating at peak capacity. However, just because I didn't hate it doesn't mean pumpkin spice ramen should be a thing again. I have not offered a ringing endorsement beyond "it didn't make me immediately regret my life choices." Because you know what? Pumpkin spice ramen is kind of weird, and if you haven't had half a bottle of liquor, probably gross too. Some ideas should never go past the suggestion stage, and this is one of them.