Over the past weekend, Fort Nonsense Brewing in New Jersey delighted craft beer enthusiasts with the release of its highly anticipated Thanksgiving-inspired beers, offering a seasonal taste experience that had locals flocking to the taproom. With limited quantities available, the brewery’s four new seasonal offerings quickly became the talk of the town, available on tap, to-go in single cans, mixed 4-packs, and standard 4-packs. Regulars and newcomers alike were eager to sample these holiday creations, many praising the brewery’s inventive approach to Thanksgiving flavors.
The lineup kicked off with Pass the Cranberry Sauce Sour Ale, a 5.9% ABV brew infused with fresh cranberries and local honey. This tart yet balanced sour was celebrated for its nuanced flavor profile, blending the bright acidity of cranberries with the subtle sweetness of honey. Reviewers described it as tasting reminiscent of homemade chutney, with a refreshing quality that appealed to both seasoned sour aficionados and casual drinkers looking for a festive twist.
Next on the seasonal menu was We’re Having M.A.S.H.E.D. Potatoes Hazy IPA, a 7.1% ABV beer crafted with local honey. The Hazy IPA style is known for its juicy, fruit-forward character and smooth mouthfeel, and Fort Nonsense delivered a creamy, satisfying version with just a hint of sweetness to balance the hops. While the mashed potato theme was more about texture than flavor, it added a playful, seasonal element that intrigued patrons and made for an enjoyable tasting experience.
For those seeking a savory holiday twist, the brewery introduced Let’s Give ‘Em Stuffing to Talk About Saison, an 8.8% ABV saison brewed with chestnuts, sage, thyme, and peppercorn. This beer quickly earned a reputation as a must-try for adventurous beer drinkers. Fans of the brewery praised its complex layering of herbal and spice notes that evoke the warmth of a Thanksgiving feast without being overpowering. The combination of savory and aromatic ingredients showcased Fort Nonsense’s dedication to pushing creative boundaries while remaining approachable.
Rounding out the seasonal selection was the bold Bourbon-Barrel Aged So Many Friggin’ Sweet Potatoes, a 12.4% ABV pastry stout that exemplified indulgence. The sweet potatoes, vanilla, cinnamon, and lactose combined with the depth of bourbon barrel aging created a rich, dessert-like experience with notes of caramel, oak, and vanilla. Enthusiasts described it as a decadent holiday treat, perfect for sipping slowly and savoring the layered complexity that the brewery has become known for.
The taproom itself embraced the holiday spirit, unveiling an updated Happy Hour with $5 full pours of fan favorites like PSL Pumpkin Spice Lager and Zicke Zacke Hefeweizen, available weekdays from 4-6 p.m. and all day on Black Friday. Patrons also had the chance to enjoy the brewery’s extensive tap list while sampling the seasonal releases, reinforcing Fort Nonsense’s reputation for combining innovative beer with a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere.
Looking ahead, Fort Nonsense Brewing continues to host a vibrant calendar of events, including brewery photos with Santa, pet-friendly Santa Paws sessions, live music nights, book fairs, comedy shows, and its upcoming 8th Anniversary Party featuring new beer releases and live music from John Pronto. Monthly activities like Dungeons ‘N Drafts, Bonsai Bar, and Trivia Revolution provide additional ways for the community to connect with the brewery and its offerings, ensuring that the taproom remains a hub of social and cultural activity throughout the year:
Sunday, December 7: Brewery Photos with Santa FREE! Plus, Fort & Friends Brass Carol Band. 2-5pm.
Sunday, December 14: Santa Paws: Pet Photos with Santa, hosted by Brick City Rescue, 12-4pm. Secure your spot, here.
Friday, December 19: Kris and the Kringles: Fort Nonsense Brewing’s Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree Party, 6-9pm. No cover. More info here.
Sunday, December 21: Jigs & Swigs, 11:30-12:30pm, Barrel Room. Tickets coming soon.
Sunday, January 11: New Year, New TBR Book Fair (10+ vendors/local authors!), 12-4pm.
Friday, January 16: Next Stop Comedy Night, Barrel Room, 8pm. Tickets here.
Saturday, January 24: Fort Nonsense Brewing’s 8th Anniversary Party, new beer releases & live music from John Pronto, 6-9pm. No cover.
Monthly Happenings:
Dungeons ‘N Drafts is held once a month in our taproom. Join a campaign, or hop in and learn to play! All levels welcome. Come as you are. Upcoming dates include Dec. 17. $20 to play. Tickets here.
Bonsai Bar! 🌳 Pick up a new tree-caring hobby and snag your tickets here. Upcoming dates include: Jan. 4, etc.
Trivia Revolution is held twice a month on the second and fourth Thursday of every month at 7:30pm! Upcoming dates include: Dec. 11, (Dec. 25 is cancelled due to the holiday) Come by and win brewery-themed prizes!
Craft beer fans eager to explore these seasonal releases or plan a visit can find more details and updates through Fort Nonsense Brewing’s beer breweries coverage. The combination of festive flavors, innovative brewing techniques, and engaging taproom events has once again positioned Fort Nonsense as a standout destination in New Jersey’s craft beer scene, leaving a lasting impression on those who experienced this year’s Thanksgiving beer lineup.
