Given a slight but relieving dip in scorching or sweltering temperatures, the impending Fall season means a new variety of flavors and profiles amongst local breweries. Earthier, richer tones and notes to everything from lagers, ambers, marzens and porters to pilsners means that the lighter crisper fare of Spring and Summer are being left behind as we move full speed ahead into the holiday months and new year. With that in mind, we’ve accumulated a collection of some of our favorites, hoping you’ll enjoy the season with a refreshing beverage in hand. Most of these breweries are headquartered in Jacksonville proper and the beer from breweries not headquartered in Jacksonville are available in stores throughout Jacksonville. 

Count Shakula (Stout, 6.2% ABV) – Green Room Brewing
It’s the roasted malt that gives this particular brew its deep, dark coloring and complex, medium-bodied flavor, while elements of oatmeal and chocolate give it a rounded, creamy mouthfeel. And if you’re in the mood for a more select seasonal inclusion, you can’t go wrong with the surprisingly smooth Blackwater Imperial Wheat Stout. Green Room never disappoints, and given the impending spooky season, might as well throw on the Anton Yelchin-starring, punk-rock horror thriller that shares their name while enjoying a frosty pint.  228 N. 3rd St., Jacksonville, FL; greenroombrewing.com // @greenroombrew

Killer Whale Cream Ale (Ale, 4.2%) – Brewery
If you’re feeling tired or lagers, or burnt out from the endless waves of hazy IPAs offered throughout the market, give this light, crisp cream ale a try. A little bit easier on both the ABV and heaviness, ​​the pale malt characteristics and heavy carbonation highlight some of the more lemony citrus tones and subtle wheat notes. Pale gold in color with delicate wisps of eggshell white around the rim, let the aromas of vanilla and corn take you away to a beautiful Fall day with rich red, yellow and orange leaves strewn about the ground. 2670 Rosselle St. #7, Jacksonville, FL; boldcitybrewery.com // @boldcitybrewery

Das Engine Oktoberfest (Lager, 5.2%) – Engine 15 Brewing
This entry is in the Märzen style of Oktoberfest beers is a bit more malt forward than the Helles selections that are served in Munich, but it remains true to tradition all the same. Hits the tongue slightly sweet but finishes lightly bitter but clean. In a sea of orange offerings 1500 Beach Blvd #217, Jacksonville, FL; engine15.com // @engine15brewing

Maduro (Brown Ale, 5.5% ABV) – Cigar City Brewing
Coincidentally the first commercially brewed selection to come out of the central Florida mainstay, this brown ale may be a year-round brew, but it’s especially enjoyable during the temperate Fall months. The beer’s moniker itself originates from a cigar rolled in the heart of Ybor City, while aromas of brown bread and roasted grains intermingle with deftly blended flavors of semi-sweet chocolate, roasted malt and coffee. And for the sake of variety, definitely snag some Good Gourd Pumpkin Ale (8.8%, featuring cinnamon, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla), or any of the special limited release Camazotz Imperial Stout (11.2%, with cacao nibs, chile peppers and blackberries), named for the Mayan bat god of night, sacrifice, and death. Metal. 924 W. Spruce St, Tampa, FL; cigarcitybrewing.com // @visitccb

Never Too Late Pumpkin Ale (Brown Ale, 6.9%) – Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co.
This seasonal favorite often rests at the top of most local beer aficionados’ lists of most anticipated annual releases. Located in a historic district off the shores of Lake Ivanhoe formerly known as “Joyland,” the location previously served as home to several orange groves and a pineapple farm. Brewed with Amarillo and Cascade hops, along with a heaping amount of pumpkin (…duh), it has fresh, but subtle spices (vanilla, coriander, nutmeg) that bring a Fall spirit (pun *intended*) to this hearty ale. 1300 Alden Rd, Orlando, FL; ivanhoeparkbrewing.com // @ivanhoeparkbrew