Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens notwithstanding, fall brews are some of our favorite things! With notes both spicy and sweet and sourced from local harvests, this collection of autumn-inspired beers from some of our favorite D.C.-area breweries helps us happily embrace the changing of the seasons. Because everything is better with pumpkin!

DC Brau Fermentation Without Representation: Two pounds of allspice, ginger, cinnamon and cloves brewed with 600 pounds of pumpkin puree results in this Imperial Pumpkin Porter from DC Brau and Utah’s Epic Brewing. Beyond the spice you’ll taste hints of burnt raisins and plums — the perfect complement to the rich flavors of the season (8% ABV).

Flying Dog Dogtoberfest Marzen: This fall release from the Frederick, MD, brewery is both spicy and sweet with light caramel notes and a crisp finish, all made locally with German ingredients. The brewery recommends pairing it with Mexican cheese and sweet Asian sauces. Fusion fare, anyone? (5.6% ABV)

Port City Oktoberfest: What could be better than the “gently sweet flavors of crusty bread?” This fall lager features German malts (Vienna, Pils, Munich and Caramunich, to be exact) and hops, brewed together for a sip both sweet and dry (6% ABV).

Flying Dog The Fear Imperial Pumpkin Ale: A brew made with pumpkin pie spices and puree from locally-grown orange gourd? Yes please! A multi-layered brew, this one’s perfect for seasonal spicy or sweet flavors... we’re thinking Halloween candy will work just fine (9% ABV).

3 Stars Pandemic Porter: With notes of chocolate, coffee and caramel, the Imperial Porter from this Takoma Park production brewery is described by Churchkey beer aficiando Greg Engert as “Big, bold, and hugely flavored” — just the right notes for celebrating fall. Find it on draft around town or stop by the brewery during Growler Hours (9.6% ABV).