North Cascades Brewing Company, Lowefield Porter
Bellingham, Wash.
Cost: Pint: approx. $3.00

Fall is arguably the ideal season for sipping porters. The North Cascades Brewing Company, PO Box 28113, Bellingham, makes a delightful London-style porter. In a marketplace chock-full of hoppy, chocolatey Northwest-style porters, this dry, fruity dark ale is a refreshing change of pace.

The company's line of Lowefield Ales, on tap around Northwest Washington at fine establishments like the Archer Ale House, 1212 Tenth St., Bellingham, is produced by husband and wife team, Brian and Loretta Sheldon.

The Lowefield porter is almost black with burgundy highlights and a creamy head. Its depth of roasted malt character is tempered with a fruitiness reminiscent of currants or even raisin bread, and a smooth hop tang. At just over 5% alcohol, it has a warming, restorative quality for cool autumn evenings.