I recently moved to Somerville. The younger population, hip vibe and active lifestyle were just a few of the reasons I set up home here. The fact that this city now brews its own beer is just one giant bonus.

Slumbrew is the research and development brand of Somerville Brewing Company. Founded as a result of 15 years of beer research and tasting by Caitlin Jewell and Jeff Leiter, Slumbrew “provides an opportunity to experiment with innovative local ingredients to produce craft beers that stand apart from typical formulations.”

Slumbrew currently has three beers on the market: Porter Square Porter, Flagraiser IPA and, the one highlighted here today, Happy Sol. Happy Sol is an unfiltered wheat beer brewed with local wildflower honey, orange peel, coriander and the juice from over 1,000 blood oranges. 

Rich chocolate, espresso, nutmeg and pumpkin spice – all wrapped up in an ice cold brew. This is what fall should taste like. 

Cape Ann Brewing Company is a family-owned microbrewery located in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Their beers possess bold flavors and characters that are meant to resemble the courage of the sailors of the North Atlantic fishing fleet. Despite the impressive list of brews Cape Ann produces year-round, the brewery also makes their own pumpkin stout this time of year – along with an imperial version for the true stout fans.

Locally-grown pumpkins, barley and wild rosemary – all ingredients that make a good beer.

Last week, I attended the “Drink Local Craft Beer” dinner at Cambridge Common. Four courses were paired with four Cambridge Brewing Company beers (in addition to a “Welcome Brew” that was served at the beginning of the evening). There was plenty of imbibing, eating and indulging – and a lot of talk about local beer.

Cambridge Brewing Company (CBC)’s tag line says it all: “Fresh beer. Local food.” Open since 1989, CBC takes pride in brewing seasonal, delicious beers made with the freshest, as-local-as-possible ingredients. With over 30 pumpkin brews currently on tap at their restaurant, it’s clear the brewery has a passion and dedication for seasonal food being grown nearby.

I recently found myself with the gift of a leisurely Saturday morning.  Looking to make something "fun" for breakfast, I poked around the pantry and refrigerator for inspiration.  It wasn't long before I happened upon a couple jars of jam, locally made by Robin Cohen with locally grown ingredients.

Robin's "Doves and Figs" jams are out of this world, and by themselves, are worth the trip to any farmers' market that features Robin's products.

I wanted to make the jam the star of the show, so I whipped up some quick crepes and filled them with Robin's "Lunchbox Blueberry Strawberry Preserves." Score!

Here's how you can do the same.