Under development for the last year, the new program will offer different beers to match each of the four seasons, said John Costello, product manager, Michelob Specialty Brands at A-B's domestic brewing subsidiary.

Using pumpkin for the fall beer seemed a natural choice, he said. "I like to describe Jack's as a wicked blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, clove and real delicious pumpkins."

Though pumpkin might seem unusual, Anheuser-Busch contends today's beer drinkers are adventurous enough to try the brew. "It's a well-rounded beer that goes with food very well," Kuplent said. "You could serve it with turkey and as a dessert beer."

Anheuser-Busch originally planned to have the pumpkin-flavored drink available only on draught. But the brewmasters convinced the marketing department that the beer should be part of the Michelob Special Sampler Collection, a seasonal package of bottled specialty beers that A-B has offered every fall since 1997, Costello said.

The 12-bottle and 18-bottle sampler collection also includes Michelob, Michelob Marzen, Michelob Pale Ale, Michelob Honey Lager and Michelob AmberBock.

Although this fall's offering is being bottled, upcoming seasonal beers will be available only on tap. A-B's brewmasters are developing a winter brew now, which should be ready in December.

"I can assure you it's going to be something that will warm you by the fireplace and be appropriate for the cold winter months," Costello said.