• FYI: Munich's official Oktoberfest began in 1810 as a harvest festival for the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese.

By the time the air chills and the leaves turn, Oktoberfest is underway. And while we're sure you're throwing on an M65, there are other ways to celebrate autumn's arrival—like with some of the year's best beers. Munich's official bash may've just ended, but any aficionado will tell you Oktoberfest is a state of mind. Besides, they only serve six local brews there. In the states, small breweries are crafting dozens of world-class beers. Here are three of our favorites. - Alex Miller

Sierra Nevada Harvest Wet
Hop Ale
Produced in limited quantities, hops are picked on the brewery's premises and thrown into the brew kettle wet, lending a fresh and complex flavor.

$4.99.

North Coast Brewing Co. Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout
Flavorful, dramatic and mildly threatening, Old Rasputin lives up to its namesake. Its smoky aroma, roasted taste and warming finish make it a perfect pour for those cool autumn nights.

$7.99 for four.

Southern Tier Brewing Co. Pumking
Southern Tier strikes gold, creating a creamy, flavorful ale that rivals your grandmother's pumpkin pie, crust and all. Save the fork and sip this slowly for dessert.

$9.99.