Chicagoist "Beer of the Week:" New Holland Ichabod

By Chuck Sudo in Food on Oct 29, 2010 7:40PM

Pumpkin brews are delicate creatures. Unfortunately, a lot of breweries go overboard, either brewing them too sweet, too spicy or thinner than water, instead of trying for balance.

New Holland recognizes the need for balance, and their "Ichabod" pumpkin ale achieves that. Here is an ale that pours a bright copper in color, with a thick head like an orange colored sky. Ichabod has an effervescent carbonation with some good spice on both the nose and palate, thanks to the spicing with cinnamon and nutmeg.

Ichabod's mouthfeel is hearty and rich, almost like a porter, with prominent caramel. All that spice hits you on the finish like a headless horseman. Need a reason to head down to the wunnerful Bridgeport area? Maria's carries Ichabod in bottles.