The Fear: A Savage Journey to the Main Nerve of the American Dream

I hate to say this,” said my attorney as we sat down at the Merry-Go-Round Bar on the second balcony, “but this place is getting to me. I think I’m getting the Fear.”"Nonsense,” I said. “We came here to find the American Dream, and now that we’re right in the vortex you want to quit.” I grabbed his bicep and squeezed. “You must realize,” I said, “that we’ve found the main nerve.”"I know,” he said. “That’s what gives me the Fear.” - H.S.T. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.

I have always had a love hate relationship with Flying Dog.  On one hand, yes I love the H.S.T. connection, and the Ralph Steadman artwork, but on the other the beers never got on all that well with me.  Still though I wanted to give The Fear a shot, and to be able to pick up one bottle to try it was not all that risky.

The Fear pours a deep amber with a red tinge.  Very wine like, and easily one of the best looking Pumpkin Ales I have come across.

The nose was of huge Fall scents - roasted malt, & pumpkin pie spices, nutmeg,  allspice, & cinnamon.  Very light head, but the lacing does lasts through the glass.

Taste follows the same lines a the nose.  Not sweet, and has a hint of bitterness on the finish.  Dry enjoyable mouth feel.

Given its imperial title, you are not hit over the head with the alcohol,  it is there but it blends in very well with the other favors, and is a good complement to them.

The Fear is a very hearty and enjoyable Pumpkin Ale, in my mind, sitting between a Pumpkin Ale and Porter.  This one would be better suited as the weather turns colder,  it might be a bit much for a warmer fall day. I plan on picking up more of this one!